India completed a dominant victory over New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final in Ahmedabad on March 8, winning by 96 runs to claim a third title and become the first men’s side to win successive World T20 tournaments — and the first to lift the trophy on home soil. India posted a record 255 for 5 in 20 overs and bowled New Zealand out for 159 in 19 overs in front of an estimated 86,000 spectators.
Sanju Samson led the onslaught with a breathtaking 89 off 46 balls, while Abhishek Sharma struck a rapid 52 off 21, including an 18-ball fifty, and Ishan Kishan contributed 54 off 25 as India tore through New Zealand’s attack. The opening pair of Samson and Abhishek put India in control early, adding 92 in the powerplay and a 98-run first-wicket stand that set the platform for the big total.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner’s decision to hand the new ball to medium-pacer Jacob Duffy while leaving out off-spinner Cole McConchie was identified as a tactical misread of the pitch and, according to reports, proved costly. India exploited the advantage immediately and kept up the scoring rate throughout the innings, hitting eight sixes in Samson’s power-packed knock.
When New Zealand came out to chase, Jasprit Bumrah produced a match-defining spell, finishing with figures of 4-0-15-4 and effectively ending any realistic hopes of a recovery. India’s bowlers maintained pressure after Bumrah’s burst; Axar Patel grabbed three crucial wickets and the attack never let the Black Caps build momentum.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X within minutes of the triumph: “Champions! This remarkable triumph reflects exceptional skills, determination and teamwork. They have shown outstanding grit through the tournament. This victory has filled every Indian heart with pride and joy. Well done, Team India!” The victory also marked Gautam Gambhir’s second T20 World Cup as coach, making him the first coach to guide India to two T20 World titles.
For several players the final was a personal vindication: Samson’s innings answered long-standing critics, Abhishek redeemed a below-par tournament with a match-winning cameo, and Kishan’s brisk fifty underlined the depth of India’s batting. New Zealand’s Tim Seifert top-scored for his side with 52, but the chase never gained traction against disciplined Indian bowling.
India 255 for 5 (Samson 89, Abhishek 52, Kishan 54) defeated New Zealand 159 all out; Bumrah 4-15-4 and Axar 3-27-3 starred with the ball. The comprehensive win capped a memorable campaign and left India celebrating back-to-back T20 world titles. (PTI)
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2026/03/09/india-crush-nz-to-defend-title/
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Publish Date: 2026-03-09 06:50:00
