India’s dominant run through the T20 World Cup reached its triumphant conclusion as they hammered New Zealand by 96 runs in the final to retain the title and etch their names into cricket folklore. The hosts, who scored more than 250 in three of their matches, saved their most complete performance for the biggest stage. For 100,000 fans inside the stadium, it was a night they will carry with them forever.
The match began with India’s openers shifting through the gears at an astonishing rate, reaching 92 for no loss after the powerplay and equalling the highest powerplay score in World Cup history. Abhishek Sharma blasted his way to 50 off just 18 balls, while Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan took turns to punish anything loose. Jacob Duffy, recalled to the side after being dropped, conceded 15 in his first over alone, setting the tone for a painful evening for New Zealand’s bowlers.
Sanju Samson anchored the innings beautifully, reaching 89 off 46 deliveries before being caught trying to loft over the boundary. Kishan contributed 54 off 25 before following his partner to the pavilion. Suryakumar Yadav departed for a golden duck in unfortunate fashion, while Jimmy Neesham delivered the unusual feat of taking three wickets in one over while conceding just a single run.
The New Zealand chase was a subdued affair from the opening over. Bumrah’s three-wicket haul removed any remaining doubt about the result, and New Zealand were eventually dismissed for 159, well short of the 255 they needed. Only Tim Seifert’s half-century provided any bright spots for the Black Caps on a difficult evening.
India’s achievement stands apart in the modern era of cricket. Defending the T20 World Cup title was thought to be near-impossible, yet they have done it convincingly. They are, without doubt, the finest T20 team in the world.