India Beats New Zealand by 96 Runs to Win T20 World Cup 2026
By: india tv update | 3 min read | Updated: Mar 9, 2026
India made history on Sunday by defending their T20 World Cup title and becoming the first team to win the trophy on home soil. At the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the Men in Blue thrashed New Zealand by 96 runs, avenging their loss in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia.
Chasing India’s massive total of 255/5, New Zealand struggled from the start. Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips were dismissed in the first five overs. Hardik Pandya then removed Mark Chapman, followed by Tim Seifert, who had managed a half-century, falling to Varun Chakravarthy. Daryl Mitchell’s wicket in the 13th over sealed New Zealand’s fate. Jasprit Bumrah took 4 wickets, while Axar Patel claimed 3, completely dismantling the Kiwi batting lineup.
India’s Batting Heroics
India’s innings was powered by Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, who set the tone with a destructive partnership. Ishan Kishan added 54 off 25 balls, making it a stellar top-three display.
- Abhishek Sharma scored a rapid 52 off 21 balls, taking full advantage of a tactical error by Mitchell Santner.
- Sanju Samson delivered a masterclass, smashing 89 runs off 46 balls with eight towering sixes. His performance combined power and finesse, leaving fans and critics in awe.
After standout performances against West Indies and England, Samson finally silenced his doubters, showcasing his skill on the grand stage under the Ahmedabad lights.
Meanwhile, New Zealand captain Santner’s strategy backfired, especially in team selection, with the dropping of off-spinner Cole McConchie, who had been effective in the semifinals against left-handed batsmen.
India’s emphatic win not only crowned them T20 World Cup champions again but also marked a historic moment in Indian cricket history.
