Mumbai: India defeated England by seven runs in a thrilling high-scoring semi-final to book a place in the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Thursday.
The match at the Wankhede Stadium turned into a run fest as India posted a massive 253/7 in 20 overs, the highest total recorded in a T20 World Cup knockout match.
Samson’s Explosive 89 Sets the Tone
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson played a sensational innings of 89 off 42 balls, smashing eight fours and seven sixes to lead India’s batting charge.
After Abhishek Sharma fell early for nine, Samson accelerated the scoring during the powerplay and reached his half-century in just 26 balls.
He then shared a 97-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, who scored a quick 39 from 18 balls.
Later in the innings, Shivam Dube contributed 43 off 25 balls, while Hardik Pandya (27 off 12) and Tilak Varma (21 off 7) provided the late fireworks to push India beyond the 250-run mark.
For England, Will Jacks was the most successful bowler with figures of 2/40.
Bethell Century Keeps England in the Fight
Chasing a daunting target of 254, England mounted a strong response led by Jacob Bethell, who smashed a brilliant 105 off 48 balls.
Despite early wickets, Bethell kept England in contention with aggressive stroke play. He also shared a 77-run partnership with Will Jacks (35 off 20) to keep the chase alive.
England needed 69 runs in the last five overs, but India’s bowlers held their nerve in the closing stages.
Bumrah Controls the Final Overs
India’s bowling effort was anchored by Jasprit Bumrah, who delivered a disciplined spell conceding 33 runs in four overs.
In the final overs, Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube successfully defended the target as England finished at 246/7, falling just short of the massive total.
India to Face New Zealand in Final
With the victory, India advanced to the final where they will take on New Zealand national cricket team at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.
It will be India’s fourth appearance in a T20 World Cup final. The team previously won the title in 2007 and 2024, while finishing runners-up in 2014.
Brief Scores
India: 253/7 (20 overs) – Sanju Samson 89, Shivam Dube 43; Will Jacks 2/40
England: 246/7 (20 overs) – Jacob Bethell 105; Hardik Pandya 2/38
Result: India won by 7 runs.
