India booked their place in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 final for the fourth time, defeating England in a thrilling contest.
India posted a massive 253/7, the highest-ever total in a T20 World Cup knockout match, powered by a brilliant 89 off 42 balls from Sanju Samson, who was later named Player of the Match. Valuable contributions from Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, and Tilak Varma ensured India crossed the 250 mark.
England’s 246/7 chase began shakily, with Hardik Pandya dismissing Phil Salt, followed by a spectacular diving catch by Axar Patel off Jasprit Bumrah to remove Harry Brook. Varun Chakaravarthy struck back to dismiss Jos Buttler after conceding a flurry of sixes, while Axar Patel claimed Tom Banton’s wicket, leaving England reeling at 95/4.
England’s chase had bright moments, with Jacob Bethell smashing a maiden T20I century (105 off 48) and Will Jacks (35 off 22) showcasing aggressive strokeplay. India’s bowlers held firm, with Bumrah keeping things tight in the later overs and Hardik Pandya effecting a crucial run-out of Bethell.
Brilliant fielding, including two stunning catches from Axar Patel and a key wicket from Arshdeep Singh, ensured England were restricted to 246/7, handing India a hard-fought but well-deserved victory and a place in the final.
