In a thrilling finale of the T20 World Cup 2026 held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Team India triumphed over New Zealand by a remarkable 96 runs. This victory marked a significant milestone, as the ‘Men in Blue’ successfully defended their title in the shortest format and became the first team to secure three T20 World Cup championships.
Axar Patel, the vice-captain of Team India, showcased his skills by taking three wickets for 27 runs in just four overs. After the match, he took to social media to express his emotions about this unforgettable moment. He wrote, “Winning the World Cup is a childhood dream. However, today felt even more special because our little Haksh was in the stands, witnessing his dad play for the first time. This will always hold a special place in my heart. A moment I’ll cherish forever.”
In the title match, India batted first and set an imposing target of 256 runs, losing only five wickets in their 20 overs. Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan each scored half-centuries, while Shivam Dube added a quickfire 26 runs off just eight balls. Samson led the charge with an impressive 89 runs off 46 deliveries, featuring five boundaries and eight sixes. Abhishek contributed significantly with 52 runs from 21 balls, including six fours and three sixes, while Ishan added 54 runs off 25 balls, peppered with four boundaries and four sixes.
Chasing a daunting target of 256 runs, New Zealand struggled and was bowled out for 159 runs in 19 overs. Jasprit Bumrah was the star of the bowling attack, taking four wickets for just 15 runs in four overs, while Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Abhishek Sharma each chipped in with a wicket as well.