India produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat New Zealand by 96 runs in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final in Ahmedabad. The hosts dominated the match from start to finish, posting 255/5, the highest total ever in a T20 World Cup final, before bowling out New Zealand for 159.
India’s aggressive batting approach paid off as Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma tore into the Kiwi attack during the powerplay. The pair raced to 92 runs in the first six overs, setting a new benchmark for the tournament.
Sharma led the charge with a blistering 52 from just 21 balls, bringing up the fastest half-century of the competition. After his departure, Samson continued the momentum alongside Ishan Kishan. Their 105-run partnership for the second wicket came in just 48 balls, completely shifting the game out of Kiwi’s.
Samson was the star of the innings, scoring 89 off 46 balls, while Kishan smashed 54 off 25 balls. Despite losing a few quick wickets in the middle overs, Shivam Dube’s late assault of 26 off 8 balls helped India surge past the 250 mark.
New Zealand’s response never gained momentum as early wickets derailed their chase. Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips all fell cheaply.
Tim Seifert tried to counterattack with a quick 52 off 26 balls, but the Kiwi innings collapsed under pressure and the required run rate proved too steep.
India’s bowling attack sealed the victory with ease. Jasprit Bumrah delivered a brilliant spell of 4/15, while Axar Patel claimed 3/27.
With this victory, India became the first nation to defend the T20 World Cup title and the first to win the tournament on home soil, cementing their dominance in the shortest format.
