Team India has historically struggled against New Zealand in the T20 World Cups. The two sides have faced off three times in the 2007, 2016, and 2021 editions of the marquee event, and the Men in Blue have lost all three encounters. For 18 years, India have been unable to register a win against New Zealand in T20 World Cups, reinforcing the so-called ‘Kiwis Curse’ and highlighting the challenge they pose in ICC events.
This gives New Zealand a psychological edge over Team India, who have a stronger squad and home advantage heading into the final in Ahmedabad. Therefore, the Men in Blue cannot underestimate the Kiwis, as past T20 World Cup struggles show that New Zealand can punch above their weight, and the Suryakumar Yadav-led side will need focus, composure, and execution to break the 18-year Jinx.