India managed to secure consecutive T20 World Cup final berth as they survived a scare in a thrilling encounter against England in the T20 World Cup semifinal on Thursday (March 5).
Check out the best stories from the competition here in the Bulletin for March 6.
India beat England to qualify for T20 WC Final
India defeated England by 7 runs in a high-scoring thriller at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on March 5, 2026, to reach the T20 World Cup final. Posting 253/7 after being put in to bat, India defended the total despite England’s spirited chase of 246/7. This victory sets up a summit clash with New Zealand at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, as defending champions India continue their strong campaign.
Sanju Samson continues masterclass with the bat with 89
Sanju Samson delivered another explosive innings, scoring 89 off 42 balls (8 fours, 7 sixes) in India’s 253/7 total against England. Dropped early on 15 by Harry Brook, he capitalized to produce a blistering knock that powered India’s highest total in a T20 World Cup knockout game. His aggressive batting has been a highlight of India’s tournament run.
Jacob Bethell announces with superb ton, ends up as Tragic Hero
England’s Jacob Bethell smashed a brilliant century (105 off 48 balls) in the chase of 254, keeping his side in contention until the end in the semi-final. His explosive innings featured rapid scoring and big hits, but despite his heroics, England fell short by 7 runs. Bethell’s effort earned praise as a standout performance in defeat as the youngster announced himself at the randest stage.
Samson dedicates POTM award to Jasprit Bumrah
Sanju Samson, named Player of the Match for his 89 off 42 balls, dedicated the award to Jasprit Bumrah after India’s 7-run win over England. He highlighted Bumrah’s crucial bowling contributions in restricting England during the high-pressure chase, crediting the team’s collective effort and Bumrah’s leadership in tight moments for the victory. ‘Once in a generation bowler, credit goes to Bumrah. He should get the award,’ said Sanju at the post-match ceremony.
India to face New Zealand in T20 World Cup Final
India qualified for the T20 World Cup 2026 final after beating England by 7 runs in the semi-final at Mumbai. They will now face New Zealand, who advanced by dominating South Africa in the first semi-final, in the title decider at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The clash promises a high-stakes battle between two strong sides as India eye their third title, while the Kiwis aim for their first one.
MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma witness India’s victory at Wankhede
Former India captains MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma were present at Wankhede Stadium to watch India’s thrilling 7-run semi-final win over England. Their attendance added to the electric atmosphere as the home crowd celebrated the defending champions’ progression to the final, with the legends witnessing a high-octane contest. Dhoni was with wife Sakshi, while Rohit was present as ICC’s brand ambassador.
Axar Patel takes brilliant catches as India revive fielding
Axar Patel shone in the field during the semi-final against England, taking brilliant catches that helped stem England’s momentum in the chase. His sharp efforts contributed to key breakthroughs, reviving India’s fielding standards after earlier lapses. Axar took a brilliant catch going behind to dismiss Harry Brook, and then his acrobatic relay catch with Shivam Dube to dismiss Will Jacks turned the game in India’s favour.
Abhishek Sharma continues to fail with Bat
Abhishek Sharma struggled again with the bat in the semi-final against England, failing to make a significant impact in India’s innings. Despite the team’s strong total of 253/7 led by others, his ongoing lean patch with the bat has been a concern amid an otherwise dominant tournament performance by India. The southpaw has so far scored 89 runs in this World Cup with an average of just over 12. His selection for the final also remains in doubt.
Jasprit Bumrah hailed after stellar bowling spell vs England
Jasprit Bumrah earned widespread praise for his stellar bowling in the semi-final, claiming key wickets and conceding runs economically (2/33) to restrict England to 246/7 while chasing 254. His death-over mastery and variations were instrumental in India’s narrow 7-run victory, solidifying his reputation as a world-class performer.
India return to Narendra Modi Stadium and eye Redemption
India return to Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad for the T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand, seeking redemption and a title defense. After their semi-final triumph over England, the team aims to lift the trophy at the iconic venue, where they lost the 2023 ODI World Cup Final against Australia.