India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, clinching the T20 world title for the third time. The final was played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first against India in the championship match.
Batting first, India posted a massive total of 255 for 5 in 20 overs thanks to explosive innings from Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, and Abhishek Sharma.
Samson led the charge with 89 runs off 46 balls, while Kishan smashed 54 runs off 24 balls. Sharma added a quick 52 runs off 21 deliveries, putting New Zealand under immense pressure. Shivam Dube remained unbeaten on 26 runs from 8 balls, helping India finish with a formidable total.
For New Zealand, James Neesham took three wickets, while Matt Henry and Rachin Ravindra claimed one wicket each.
Chasing a daunting target of 256 runs, New Zealand were bowled out for 159 in 19 overs. Tim Seifert scored 52 runs, while captain Mitchell Santner contributed 43 runs, but their efforts were not enough to overcome India’s huge total.
India’s bowlers dominated the second innings, with Jasprit Bumrah taking four wickets and Axar Patel claiming three, sealing a comprehensive victory for India.
