AHMEDABAD: India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs in the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 to claim the title for the third time.
In the final played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, New Zealand won the toss and opted to field first against India.
Batting first, India posted a huge total of 255 for five in their allotted 20 overs, thanks to impressive batting performances by Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma.
Sanju Samson led the charge with a blistering 89 off 46 balls, while Ishan Kishan smashed 54 runs from 24 deliveries. Abhishek Sharma also played an explosive knock, scoring 52 off just 21 balls. Shivam Dube added a quick unbeaten 26 runs off eight balls to push India to a formidable total.
For New Zealand, James Neesham picked up three wickets, while Matt Henry and Rachin Ravindra took one wicket each.
In reply, New Zealand were bowled out for 159 in 19 overs while chasing the massive target of 256.
Tim Seifert top-scored with 52 runs and captain Mitchell Santner made 43, but their efforts were not enough to overcome India’s huge total.
Jasprit Bumrah starred with the ball for India, taking four wickets, while Axar Patel claimed three as India sealed a comprehensive victory.
