India edge England, storm into T20 World Cup 2026 final
India, the defending champions, had lifted the previous edition by defeating South Africa and are now just one win away from retaining their crown.
KATHMANDU: Hosts India stormed into the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 final after a nail-biting seven-run victory over England in a high-scoring semi-final on Thursday.
Chasing a daunting 254-run target, England fought bravely but fell short at 246/7, setting up a blockbuster title clash between India and New Zealand this Sunday in Ahmedabad.
India, the defending champions, had lifted the previous edition by defeating South Africa and are now just one win away from retaining their crown.
Bethell’s Century in Vain
England’s Jacob Bethell delivered a sensational knock, smashing 105 off just 48 balls, including eight fours and seven sixes.
However, his heroic effort went in vain as wickets kept tumbling at the other end.
Needing 30 runs in the final over, England managed 22, with Jofra Archer striking three sixes off Shivam Dube, but the target ultimately proved out of reach. Bethell was run out in the final over, ending England’s hopes.
India Post Mammoth Total
After winning the toss at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, England opted to field first — a decision India made them regret.
India piled up a massive 253/7 in their allotted 20 overs, powered by an explosive top-order display.
Sanju Samson led the charge with a blistering 89 off 42 balls, hammering eight fours and seven sixes.
He shared a crucial 97-run partnership (45 balls) for the second wicket with Ishan Kishan, who contributed a quickfire 39 off 18 balls, striking four boundaries and two sixes.
Shivam Dube added a rapid 43 off 25 balls, while Hardik Pandya chipped in with 27 off just 12 deliveries.
Tilak Varma provided the late fireworks, smashing 21 off seven balls with three sixes.
England’s Bowling Struggles
Will Jacks and Adil Rashid picked up two wickets each, but England’s bowling attack struggled to contain India’s relentless batting.
Jofra Archer endured a tough outing, conceding 61 runs in his four overs.
With momentum firmly on their side, India now prepare for a grand finale against New Zealand, promising a thrilling battle for the T20 World Cup 2026 title.
