Ahmedabad, India – Web Desk: India capped a dominant campaign by thrashing New Zealand in the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 in Ahmedabad, successfully defending their title in front of a passionate home crowd.
The tournament, held amid off-field political tensions and dramatic on-field moments, delivered several unforgettable storylines.
In one of the most gripping group-stage encounters, South Africa and Afghanistan tied at 187 each in Ahmedabad. The teams remained level after a thrilling first super over—the first double super over in T20 World Cup history—before South Africa clinched victory on the final ball of the second sudden-death over. Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell short despite hitting three sixes in four balls needed for victory.
Former champions Australia endured a shock early exit, suffering defeats to surprise package Zimbabwe (chasing 170, bowled out for 146) and Sri Lanka without key pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. A rained-off Zimbabwe-Ireland match sealed their fate, marking only the second time Australia failed to reach the Super Eights/knockout stage.
Off the field, the build-up was marred by chaos. Pakistan initially threatened to boycott their marquee clash with India in solidarity with Bangladesh, who withdrew from the tournament after refusing to play in India. Scotland replaced Bangladesh at short notice. Following intense negotiations, the India-Pakistan match proceeded in Colombo with India winning, though post-match handshakes were notably absent amid tense relations.
Sanju Samson delivered a redemption arc for India. Initially overlooked, the wicketkeeper-batter returned in the Super Eights, smashing an unbeaten 97 (50 balls, 12 fours, 4 sixes) to chase down 196 against West Indies in Kolkata and secure a semi-final spot. He followed with 89 in the semi-final win over England and starred again in the final.
New Zealand’s Finn Allen produced the tournament’s standout individual performance, blasting the fastest century in T20 World Cup history—a blistering 33-ball 100 (10 fours, 8 sixes) in the first semi-final against South Africa. His onslaught powered New Zealand to a comfortable chase of 170 with 7.1 overs remaining, surpassing Chris Gayle’s previous record of 47 balls.
Debutants Italy, the lowest-ranked side in the 20-team field, created history by hammering Nepal by 10 wickets for their maiden World Cup win. The emotional victory left players in tears, with stand-in captain Harry Manenti highlighting the unique passion Italian cricket brings to the global game.
