Fresh from guiding India to a historic T20 World Cup triumph on home soil, captain Suryakumar Yadav has already shifted his focus to the next big milestone – winning an Olympic gold medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Games. Speaking after India’s dominant 96-run victory over New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the skipper made it clear that the team’s ambitions extend far beyond their latest World Cup success.

India’s emphatic title win marked a new chapter in the team’s modern dominance in global cricket. Yet for Suryakumar, lifting the trophy was not the end of the journey—it was simply another step toward even bigger goals.

Suryakumar Kumar sets his eyes on Olympic gold

Addressing reporters shortly after India secured the title, Suryakumar dismissed speculation about his retirement and instead spoke passionately about what lies ahead for him and the team.

“The next goal is the Olympics. Olympic gold and also the T20 World Cup that year. Don’t forget,” he declared emphatically.

His statement carries special significance because cricket will return to the Olympic Games for the first time in more than a century at Los Angeles 2028. The sport last appeared at the Olympics in 1900, and its return in the T20 format has generated huge excitement among players and fans alike.

The Olympic competition will feature six men’s and six women’s teams, making it one of the most exclusive tournaments in the sport’s history. With India entering the event as back-to-back T20 World Cup champions, expectations will naturally be sky-high.

Adding another layer of challenge, the next ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is scheduled to take place later in 2028 in Australia and New Zealand. That means the Indian team could potentially compete for both Olympic gold and another World Cup title in the same year.

Suryakumar’s announcement also ended speculation about his future in international cricket. After Rohit Sharma retired following India’s 2024 T20 World Cup victory in Barbados, many wondered whether the 35-year-old might soon step away from the format as well. His message was clear – he still has unfinished business.

A dominant final and a journey of growth for the Men in Blue

India’s performance in the final against New Zealand reflected the aggressive and confident style of cricket that Suryakumar has encouraged since taking over as captain.

Batting first, India posted 255 for 5, the highest total ever recorded in a T20 World Cup final. Sanju Samson led the charge with a brilliant 89 off 46 balls, while Ishan Kishan added a rapid 54 and Abhishek Sharma smashed a quickfire 52 off just 21 deliveries. The opening stand of 98 between Samson and Sharma gave India the perfect platform, before Shivam Dube’s late assault ensured the hosts crossed the 250 mark.

New Zealand never truly recovered during their chase. Jasprit Bumrah delivered a sensational spell of 4 for 15, supported by Axar Patel’s 3 for 27, as India bundled out the opposition for 159. The 96-run margin became the largest victory ever recorded in a T20 World Cup final.

For Suryakumar, however, the road to the title was not entirely smooth. Reflecting on the campaign, he admitted the team faced early challenges.

“Obviously, it has been a wonderful journey the last one month, though it didn’t start the way we wanted it to start. But then it’s part of the sport,” he said.

Also WATCH: Ishan Kishan celebrates T20 World Cup title win with girlfriend Aditi Hundia

India struggled in their opening match against the United States and later suffered a defeat to South Africa during the Super Eight stage. According to the captain, the turning point came during their match against Zimbabwe in Chennai.

“When we played in Chennai against Zimbabwe, I felt that we have started playing a different brand of cricket. I understood a little bit how to play going forward. And when I played the (virtual) quarterfinal against West Indies at the Eden Gardens, I felt that there was a different level of confidence in this team,” he recalled.

Suryakumar also looked back at the moment that transformed his own career trajectory – the remarkable catch he took in the 2024 T20 World Cup final.

“That catch changed my life completely. Because that was a moment of the tournament. And then after that, when I started leading this amazing team, it was a very special feeling because I knew that we were going to play the World Cup in India after two years,” he said.

Leading India at home, he explained, carried its own unique energy and expectations.

“And no team has ever won in India. And when you play T20 World Cup or any tournament in India, there is a different vibe, a different excitement. So I started telling everyone when we started playing bilaterally that you should be excited… people will have expectations from you, they will talk to you, you will enjoy it more.”

Under his leadership, India has embraced an aggressive brand of cricket that prioritizes fearless batting and attacking bowling.

“Everything was changed post 2024. We played a different brand of cricket in 2024 and from there we understood how this team needs to work forward,” he explained.

He also pointed out how the team has maintained consistency in global tournaments.

“We won the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, played a completely different brand of cricket, and now in 2026, we wanted to do something special in front of the home crowd right here. We want to continue doing that in 2027, 2028, 2029 – and never stop.”

Looking back at the turning point for Indian cricket, Suryakumar added, “I think that drought ended in 2024 after a really long time and from there we never looked back.”

Also WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav, Jay Shah and Gautam Gambhir visit Hanuman temple in Ahmedabad with the T20 World Cup trophy

As celebrations from India’s historic T20 World Cup 2026 triumph continue across the country, attention is now shifting to Thiruvananthapuram, where one of the team’s biggest heroes, Sanju Samson, is set to receive a grand welcome. The Kerala government has announced plans for a special civic reception to honour the wicketkeeper-batter, who was named Player of the Tournament after playing a decisive role in India lifting their third T20 World Cup title.

For fans in Kerala, Samson’s success is more than just a cricketing achievement—it is a moment of immense pride for the state and especially for his hometown of Vizhinjam, where his remarkable journey began.

Kerala Government plans grand reception for Sanju Samson

The Kerala government has decided to organise an official reception for Samson in Thiruvananthapuram to celebrate his contribution to India’s World Cup victory over New Zealand in the final. The announcement was made by State General Education and Labour Minister V. Sivankutty, who described Samson as one of the key figures behind India’s triumph.

“Samson, who hails from the coastal town of Vizhinjam here, has brought immense pride to Keralites with his outstanding performance in the tournament,” the minister said in a statement.

While the exact date of the felicitation ceremony has not yet been finalised, government officials confirmed that the proposal has already been communicated to Samson. The event will be organised once the cricketer confirms his availability.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also praised Samson’s performance, calling it a proud moment for every Malayali. The Chief Minister highlighted the batter’s consistency throughout the tournament and the crucial role he played in the final, describing him as the “backbone of the Indian team.” Vijayan added that Samson’s journey is a powerful reminder that dedication and perseverance can turn even the biggest dreams into reality.

Also WATCH: Ishan Kishan celebrates T20 World Cup title win with girlfriend Aditi Hundia

Sanju Samson’s journey: From Vizhinjam’s beaches to the world stage

For the people of Vizhinjam, a coastal fishing village located about 20 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram, Samson’s success carries deep emotional significance. On the night of the final, residents gathered on the beach and in local grounds to watch the match on large screens. Fireworks lit up the sky as India sealed the victory, and celebrations continued well into the early hours of the morning.

Many locals also visited the church playground where Samson had practised as a young boy, remembering the days when he would train tirelessly with dreams of playing for India.

His remarkable performances during the T20 World Cup 2026 justified that perseverance. Samson scored 321 runs in just five innings, averaging over 80 while striking at nearly 200. His three consecutive match-winning fifties in the knockout stages – including 97 not out against West Indies, 89 against England in the semi-final, and another 89 in the final against New Zealand – cemented his place among India’s World Cup heroes.

After receiving the Player of the Tournament award, Samson dedicated the honour to his wife Charulatha Ramesh, thanking her for supporting him throughout the ups and downs of his career. Images of Charulatha holding the trophy on the team bus quickly went viral, capturing an emotional family moment.

Also READ: Sanju Samson’s wife – All you need to know about star batter’s pillar of strength Charulatha Remesh

The grand stage of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad witnessed more than just a cricketing masterclass on March 08, 2026. As India dismantled New Zealand by 96 runs to clinch their third T20 World Cup title, the 86,000 fans in attendance were treated to a rare, humanizing glimpse behind the Men in Blue personas. While the scorecard will forever highlight India’s mammoth 255/5 and Jasprit Bumrah’s lethal 4/15, the real viral moments came from the tender father-son bonds shared by the champions on the turf.

Angad Bumrah’s big debut as he walks out for national Anthem with father Jasprit Bumrah 

The emotional tone of the final was set long before the first ball was bowled. In a move that pulled at the heartstrings of millions, India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah walked out for the national anthem holding the hand of his young son, Angad. Acting as a tiny player mascot, Angad stood tall beside his father as Jana Gana Mana echoed through the world’s largest cricket stadium.

For Bumrah, this wasn’t just another game. Returning to the venue where India faced a heartbreaking ODI World Cup final loss in 2023, the sight of him sharing the pre-match ritual with his son felt like a poetic full circle. Fans on social media quickly noted the contrast between the silent assassin who terrorizes batters and the doting father whispering words of encouragement to a toddler on the world’s biggest stage. It was a moment of pure serenity before the impending storm of his 145-plus kmph thunderbolts.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Awards: Full list of winners – From Jasprit Bumrah to Sanju Samson

Bumrah and Axar Patel put their dad mode on display during India’s T20 World Cup 2026 victory celebrations

Once the final wicket fell in the 19th over, the work ended and the family time began. The post-match celebrations weren’t just about champagne and trophies; they were a celebration of fatherhood. Bumrah, crowned Player of the Match, was seen cradling Angad in his arms, draped in the Indian tricolour. In a touching interview with his wife, Sanjana Ganesan, Bumrah admitted that winning was special, but having his son witness the victory was the greatest joy of his career.

Not far away, Axar Patel, the local boy who turned the game with his 3/27, was also in full ‘Dad Mode.’ Joined by his wife Meha and their son Haksh, Axar was seen playing with his little one on the outfield, letting the youngster touch the gold medal. The ‘Gujarati Jugalbandi’ of Bumrah and Axar didn’t just break the New Zealand chase; it provided the most wholesome imagery of the tournament. Seeing these elite athletes transition from fierce competitors to gentle fathers within minutes of a World Cup win reminded the world that behind every wicket and trophy is a support system that keeps them grounded.

As India become the first team to successfully defend a T20 World Cup title on home soil, the 2026 triumph will be remembered as much for the ‘fatherly love’ in the spotlight as it will be for the tactical brilliance on the field.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and other cricket stars lead congratulatory messages for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

In the high-pressure cauldron of a T20 World Cup 2026 Final, cricketers often cling to routine. But for Abhishek Sharma, India’s explosive opener, the path to redemption required a departure from the norm. On Sunday, at the packed Narendra Modi Stadium, Abhishek silenced his critics with a historic 18-ball half-century against New Zealand. However, the biggest talking point following India’s third T20 World Cup title wasn’t just the speed of his innings, but the equipment he used to achieve it: the bat of teammate Shivam Dube.

Abhishek Sharma explains why he used Shivam Dube’s bat in the T20 World Cup 2026 Final

Abhishek entered the 2026 tournament as the world’s top-ranked T20I batter, yet he spent most of the campaign searching for his rhythm. Aside from a lone fifty against Zimbabwe in the Super 8s, the left-hander had struggled to replicate the fearless form that defined his rise. Feeling the weight of a month-long lean patch, Abhishek decided to change his vibe on the morning of the final.

“I felt like trying something different,” Abhishek revealed during the post-match celebrations. With his usual batting partner Shubman Gill unavailable at the moment he made the decision, Abhishek approached the towering Dube. The trade proved to be a masterstroke. The Dube blade, known for its heavy swing and power, seemed to suit Abhishek’s aggressive intent perfectly.

Beyond the physical bat, Abhishek credited the unwavering psychological support of the Indian dressing room. In a sport where a string of low scores can lead to isolation, the 24-year-old emphasized that the “company you keep” saved his tournament.

“When I was not contributing, everyone in the team still believed in me,” he noted. This collective faith allowed him to walk out in Ahmedabad not with the fear of failure, but with the freedom to dominate.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Virat Kohli pens emotional note for ‘Chetta’ Sanju Samson

Abhishek’s record-breaking redemption and India’s clinical title defence

The tactical switch paid immediate dividends. Opening the innings against a formidable Black Caps attack, Abhishek unleashed a relentless assault during the powerplay. He reached his milestone in just 18 deliveries—smashing three boundaries and four towering sixes—to claim the record for the fastest fifty in a T20 World Cup knockout match. This eclipsed the previous record of 19 balls set by New Zealand’s Finn Allen earlier in the tournament.

Abhishek’s blistering 52 off 21 balls (at a strike rate of 247.62) acted as the catalyst for a record-breaking Indian total. Following his exit, Sanju Samson played a majestic knock of 89, while Ishan Kishan added a rapid 54. Fittingly, Dube, the owner of the magic bat provided the finishing touches to propel India to a massive 255/5.

The scoreboard pressure proved too much for New Zealand. Despite a fighting half-century from Tim Seifert, the sheer class of Jasprit Bumrah (4/15) and the guile of Axar Patel (3/27) dismantled the Kiwi chase. India’s 96-run victory not only secured their third T20 World Cup trophy but also established them as the first nation to successfully defend the title. For Abhishek, the tournament ended exactly how it began: with him at the top of the world, albeit with a little help from a teammate’s gear.

Also WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav, Jay Shah and Gautam Gambhir visit Hanuman temple in Ahmedabad with the T20 World Cup trophy

The air in Ahmedabad was electric on Sunday night as the Narendra Modi Stadium played host to a final for the ages. Under a canopy of roaring fans, India clinched the T20 World Cup 2026 title in a high-octane showdown against New Zealand. While the cricket was world-class, the post-match celebrations captured a different kind of magic. Among the sea of blue jerseys and falling confetti, one figure stood out, India’s star all-rounder, Hardik Pandya.

Pandya, instrumental in India’s clinical performance against the Kiwis, wasn’t just celebrating a professional milestone. As the final wicket fell and the fireworks illuminated the Gujarat sky, all eyes turned to the boundary ropes where Hardik was seen in a deeply emotional and ‘sizzling’ celebration with his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma. The chemistry between the two has been the talk of the town throughout the tournament, but the scenes following the trophy presentation took social media by storm.

Hardik Pandya’s adorable chemistry with Mahieka Sharma following India’s T20 World Cup win

The celebration went viral almost instantly when clips surfaced of the couple sharing intimate moments on the turf. In a video that has since garnered millions of views, Hardik and Mahieka were seen radiating joy, dancing together to the beat of the stadium’s victory anthems. The sizzling chemistry was undeniable as the couple shared multiple kisses in the heat of the moment, completely caught up in the euphoria of India becoming world champions.

One particular snippet that delighted fans showed the couple interacting with a supporter. While posing for a selfie with a lucky fan, Mahieka was seen affectionately kissing Hardik, a gesture she repeated after the photo was taken, showcasing their uninhibited bond. Mahieka has been a constant fixture in the stands throughout this World Cup campaign, often seen cheering passionately during Hardik’s explosive spells. This victory celebration in Ahmedabad felt like the culmination of a long, supportive journey for the duo.

Here are the visuals:

Hardik Pandya is Dancing with Maheika. Today Nobody can stop him😅
we should not forget Maheika’s contribution too she travelled everywhere to support him pic.twitter.com/7qf7QGGEcF

— Gagan Choudhary (@choudhary_99415) March 9, 2026

What the hell is Hardik Pandya doing here? 😭
Looks like he was just left alone on the ground to get intimate with Mehieka last night 😂 pic.twitter.com/iNYPQEPlD8

— Kusha Sharma  (@Kushacritic) March 9, 2026

Look at the way Mahika Sharma asks Hardik Pandya to do his iconic pose.

A man with his favorite person after achieving everything in life. pic.twitter.com/BccaahWQKa

— N (@Preetygirlhun) March 8, 2026

Hardik Pandya celebrating the T20 World Cup victory with his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma. pic.twitter.com/IhJGFFlvP6

— MuFFatLal Bohra (@arshdeep3444) March 8, 2026

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Awards: Full list of winners – From Jasprit Bumrah to Sanju Samson

Hardik credits his ladylove for success 

While the visuals spoke a thousand words, Hardik’s post-match comments added a layer of depth to their relationship. During a candid conversation on the field, with the winner’s medal still gleaming around his neck, Pandya was asked about his mindset leading up to the final. His response was a heartfelt tribute to Mahieka’s influence on his life and career.

“I had been saying the same thing from the beginning, that we are going to win. I even told Mahieka the same thing, ‘Don’t worry, we’ve got this.’ I want to play for the team for another ten years and win ten more titles,” Hardik remarked with his trademark confidence.

The most touching moment came when Hardik directly addressed the positive shift in his life since they began their journey together. He credited her presence as his lucky charm, stating, “Ever since Mahieka came into my life, everything has been going right. There has been win after win.”

Also READ: Explained: Why Gautam Gambhir thanked Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman after India’s T20 World Cup 2026 title triumph?

After India’s historic 96-run victory over New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, the Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, head coach Gautam Gambhir and ICC Chairman Jay Shah visited a Hanuman temple in Ahmedabad with the gleaming trophy. The visit, captured in heartwarming videos circulating on social media, showed the trio offering prayers and seeking blessings after the team’s triumphant campaign.

Temple visit before departure

Before the players dispersed to their respective destinations following the grand victory, several members of the Indian contingent made a spiritual pit stop at a Hanuman temple in Ahmedabad. Videos shared widely on social media platform X showed Suryakumar Yadav, Gautam Gambhir and Jay Shah walking into the temple premises, with the World Cup trophy held aloft for devotees to see.

The captain, who lifted the trophy on Sunday night in front of over 130,000 spectators at the Narendra Modi Stadium, was seen in a composed and grateful mood as he received blessings from the temple priest. Gambhir, the architect of India’s aggressive brand of cricket, stood alongside, his usually intense demeanour replaced by a serene smile.

In one particularly touching video, the temple priest was seen performing a special aarti for the trophy itself, waving the holy flame in front of the silverware as players and officials watched with folded hands. The priest then applied tilak on the foreheads of Suryakumar, Gambhir and Shah, blessing them for their roles in India’s historic achievement.

A video shared by news agency ANI captured the moment when Suryakumar held the trophy close as the priest chanted prayers, the early morning sunlight glinting off the silverware. The captain, known for his 360-degree strokeplay on the field, appeared completely at peace in the spiritual setting.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Awards: Full list of winners – From Jasprit Bumrah to Sanju Samson

Jay Shah’s tribute to the India team

ICC Chairman Jay Shah, who played a crucial role in the tournament’s successful organization across India and Sri Lanka, was seen interacting warmly with the players during the temple visit. Videos showed him congratulating Suryakumar and Gambhir, their shared joy evident in the relaxed body language.

Shah also took to social media to congratulate the winning team.

“What an incredible finale to the most global and accessible @ICC event ever! Congrats to India, who became the first team to win back-to-back #t20worldcup titles. Well done to Suryakumar Yadav and the whole squad and staff. Congrats also to @BLACKCAPS for their great campaign, “ he wrote.

What an incredible finale to the most global and accessible @ICC event ever!
Congrats to India, who became the first team to win back-to-back #t20worldcup titles.
Well done to Suryakumar Yadav and the whole squad and staff.

Congrats also to @BLACKCAPS for their great campaign. pic.twitter.com/7pzFmpjyDT

— Jay Shah (@JayShah) March 8, 2026

Also READ: From Anushka Sharma to Anil Kapoor – Bollywood stars go gaga in jubilation as India lifts back-to-back T20 World Cup titles

India’s dominant win over New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final sparked celebrations across the country. Amid the jubilation, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir stood out for a gesture that reflected humility and respect for those who helped build the team’s success. Instead of taking credit for guiding India to a historic title, Gambhir used the moment to acknowledge the people who laid the foundation for the team’s triumph – most notably his predecessor Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, the head of the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE).

Gambhir’s comments after the final showed that he viewed the victory not as an individual achievement but as the result of years of collective effort within Indian cricket. He made it clear that the success of the current team was built on the systems and culture established before his tenure began.

Gautam Gambhir pays tribute to Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman

For Gambhir, one of the most important contributors to India’s success was Rahul Dravid. The former head coach had overseen a period of stability and development in Indian cricket, ensuring that the team remained competitive across formats. Gambhir felt that the current triumph was a natural continuation of the groundwork laid during Dravid’s tenure.

“I think first of all I should dedicate this trophy to Rahul [Dravid] bhai, and then to VVS Laxman [bhai],” Gambhir said. “Because what Rahul bhai has done to keep Indian cricket in such a good shape during his tenure, I have to thank him for everything.”

Dravid’s influence extended beyond tactical planning or match strategies. He focused heavily on creating a strong team culture, emphasizing discipline, preparation, and belief in young players. That environment allowed the next generation of cricketers to develop with confidence, something Gambhir acknowledged openly after the World Cup win.

Gambhir also paid special tribute to VVS Laxman, who currently oversees the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. According to the head coach, the CoE plays a crucial role in Indian cricket’s long-term success by constantly preparing new talent for the national stage.

“And then VVS Laxman for unconditionally doing so much for Indian cricket behind the doors, because the CoE remains the pipeline for Indian cricket.”

Under Laxman’s leadership, the Centre of Excellence has become a hub for grooming emerging cricketers, offering advanced training facilities, technical guidance, and mentorship. Gambhir acknowledged that the steady supply of talented players coming through this system has strengthened India’s bench strength and ensured that the national team always has quality replacements ready.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Awards: Full list of winners – From Jasprit Bumrah to Sanju Samson

Gambhir backs India’s selection panel

Another key figure Gambhir recognized was Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors. Selection decisions in Indian cricket often attract heavy scrutiny, and Agarkar has frequently faced criticism for difficult calls. However, Gambhir praised the selector’s honesty and commitment to building the best possible team.

“And third is obviously Ajit Agarkar, because he does take a lot of flak, but the amount of honesty he has worked with,” said Team India head coach.

Behind every successful squad lies a selection process that balances form, potential and team combinations. Gambhir made it clear that Agarkar’s willingness to make tough decisions played a significant role in shaping the World Cup-winning team.

Also READ: Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and other cricket stars lead congratulatory messages for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

India erupted in celebration after the national cricket team scripted history by winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand on Sunday. The victory was not just another trophy for the Men in Blue – it was a moment that etched India’s name deeper into the record books. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the chorus of congratulatory messages, applauding the team for an extraordinary performance that filled millions of hearts with pride.

India’s commanding 96-run win at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad made them the first team in the history of the tournament to win the T20 World Cup three times. Even more remarkable was the fact that India also became the first side to defend the title successfully, having previously won the tournament in 2024.

President Droupadi Murmu praises Team India’s historic achievement

President Droupadi Murmu shared her heartfelt congratulations with the team through a post on social media platform X. She described the victory as a moment that pushed Indian cricket to new heights and reflected the nation’s immense sporting potential.

In her message, the President highlighted the uniqueness of India’s achievement, noting that the team now holds the proud distinction of being the only country to lift the T20 World Cup three times. She also emphasized how special it was that India managed to win the trophy in consecutive editions, something no other team has achieved before.

Murmu said the victory had brought immense joy to India’s cricket-loving population and stood as a powerful symbol of the talent and dedication of the country’s young athletes. She also acknowledged the collective effort behind the triumph, praising not only the players but also the team management and support staff who played crucial roles behind the scenes.

Wishing the team continued success in the future, the President expressed hope that Indian cricket would keep reaching new milestones in the years to come.

“Heartiest congratulations to Team India which scaled several peaks of history by winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup emphatically. India has the proud distinction of being the only country to win the cup three times. It is also the only team to win the cup twice in a row. This brings immense joy and pride to our cricket loving people. It is also a marker of the rich talent pool we have among our youth in diverse fields. Every single player, entire management and the support staff deserve the highest praise for this collective triumph. I wish our cricket team sustained glory in the future,” she wrote.

Heartiest congratulations to Team India which scaled several peaks of history by winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup emphatically. India has the proud distinction of being the only country to win the cup three times. It is also the only team to win the cup twice in a row. This…

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 8, 2026

PM Narendra Modi applauds Men in Blue’s determination

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also joined the celebrations, congratulating the team and applauding their exceptional performance throughout the tournament. In his message, he described the victory as a remarkable achievement that showcased the players’ talent, determination, and teamwork.

According to the Prime Minister, the team’s consistent grit and composure under pressure were key factors behind their success. He added that the triumph had filled every Indian heart with pride and joy, as fans across the country celebrated the historic moment.

“Champions! Congratulations to the Indian team on winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup! This remarkable triumph reflects exceptional skills, determination and teamwork. They have shown outstanding grit through the tournament. This victory has filled every Indian heart with pride and joy. Well done, Team India,” he captioned his post.

Champions!

Congratulations to the Indian team on winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup!

This remarkable triumph reflects exceptional skills, determination and teamwork. They have shown outstanding grit through the tournament.

This victory has filled every Indian heart with…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 8, 2026

Also WATCH: Ishan Kishan pulls off a stunning catch to dismiss Rachin Ravindra in T20 World Cup 2026 Final

Team India’s dominant performance in the final

India’s triumph was built on a spectacular batting display in the final. The team posted a massive 255 for five, the highest total ever recorded in a T20 World Cup final.

Sanju Samson led the charge with a superb knock of 89 off 46 balls, anchoring the innings with confidence and flair. Abhishek Sharma provided explosive momentum by smashing the fastest fifty of the tournament in just 18 balls, eventually scoring 52 off 21 deliveries.

Ishan Kishan added further firepower with a quick 54 off 25 balls, while Shivam Dube finished the innings strongly with an unbeaten 26 off just eight deliveries.

New Zealand struggled to keep pace during their chase and were restricted to 159 for nine in their 20 overs. Jasprit Bumrah delivered a sensational spell, claiming four wickets for just 15 runs, while Axar Patel supported him brilliantly with figures of 3 for 27.

Also READ: President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulate India on clinching the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 title

Veteran New Zealand fast bowler Lea Tahuhu has officially announced her retirement from ODI cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable chapter in her international career that spanned more than 15 years. The 35-year-old leaves the format as the White Ferns’ all-time leading wicket-taker in ODIs, having claimed 125 wickets in 103 matches at an impressive average of 28.01. Her departure marks the end of an era for New Zealand women’s cricket, with Tahuhu widely regarded as one of the most influential fast bowlers the team has produced.

A record-breaking ODI journey for Lea Tahuhu

Tahuhu’s journey in international cricket began in June 2011, when she made her ODI debut against Australia in Brisbane at just 20 years of age. From the very beginning, she stood out for her raw pace and aggressive style of bowling – qualities that are rare in women’s cricket. Over the years, she developed into the leader of New Zealand’s pace attack, consistently delivering match-changing spells with the ball.

Across more than a decade, Tahuhu became known for her ability to generate bounce, attack batters with pace, and deliver crucial breakthroughs when her team needed them the most. Her consistency eventually saw her rise to the top of New Zealand’s ODI bowling charts. By the time she decided to step away from the format, she had accumulated 125 wickets, the highest by any White Ferns bowler in ODI history, while maintaining a respectable economy rate of 4.54.

Her longevity and reliability also placed her among an elite group of cricketers. Tahuhu is one of only 12 players to represent the White Ferns in more than 100 ODI matches, highlighting her importance to the team over the years.

One of the defining moments of her career came in September 2021, when she recorded her maiden ODI five-wicket haul, finishing with 5/37 against England. The performance was particularly emotional as it came after she had returned to international cricket following a cancer scare, making the achievement even more meaningful.

Tahuhu also made her presence felt on the biggest stage in women’s cricket – the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. She represented New Zealand in four editions of the tournament (2013, 2017, 2022, and 2025), collecting 36 wickets in World Cup matches. That tally stands as the highest by a New Zealand bowler in the competition and places her ninth on the overall list of World Cup wicket-takers.

Her outstanding performances did not go unnoticed. In 2023, Tahuhu was honoured with a place in the ICC Women’s ODI Team of the Year, a recognition of her continued impact in the format.

Tahuhu to focus on her T20 career

Tahuhu’s final ODI appearance came during the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup, where she played against England. Reflecting on her long journey in international cricket, the veteran pacer expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country.

“It’s always been a privilege and honour to pull on the White Ferns shirt in ODI cricket,” Tahuhu said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket. “To get one game was an amazing feeling. To have been able to wear the shirt and represent my country and my family over 100 times in ODI cricket is something I never could have dreamt of. I’ll treasure every moment and walk away from the ODI game incredibly proud of what I’ve been able to achieve in the format.”

While stepping away from ODI cricket, Tahuhu has made it clear that her international journey is not over just yet. She will continue to represent New Zealand in T20 internationals, with her focus now firmly on helping the team defend their T20 World Cup title in England later this year.

“Winning the T20 World Cup in 2024 was a huge achievement and I’m really motivated to be over in England later this year to help this team defend our title,” she affirmed.

Also READ: Australia hand Alyssa Healy a winning farewell with 10 wickets win over India in the one-off Test

New Zealand Cricket has already confirmed that Tahuhu will remain part of the squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa, scheduled to begin on March 15.

White Ferns head coach Ben Sawyer also paid tribute to the veteran pacer, praising her consistency and leadership over the years.

“Lea has operated at the top of the women’s ODI game for 15 years, which is a huge achievement for a pace bowler,” Sawyer said. “Lea’s pace has always been a strength, but her competitiveness and drive to push this team forward has stood out and that has rubbed off on the younger bowlers who are now coming through and learning their craft in the ODI game.”

He added that finishing her ODI career as New Zealand’s leading wicket-taker is an achievement she should be “very proud of.”

Off the field, Tahuhu shares a special connection with New Zealand cricket as well. She is married to former White Ferns captain Amy Satterthwaite, and the couple welcomed their daughter in January 2020.

Also READ: ICC Women’s ODI Rankings – Smriti Mandhana and Alana King claim the top spots

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

In a moment of pure sporting theater and raw emotion, Australia bid farewell to one of its greatest ever players, Alyssa Healy, who announced her retirement from international cricket following a clinical victory over India in the one-off pink-ball Test at the WACA Ground in Perth. As the final wicket fell, cementing Australia’s dominant position, the scene shifted from a hard-fought contest to a celebration of a career that will be remembered for its brilliance, impact, and unprecedented success.

Alyssa Healy: A career marked by triumph and innovation

Healy’s journey in international cricket has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the course of her 16-year career, she transformed the art of wicketkeeping, combining impeccable glovework with destructive batting that often took the game away from opponents in the blink of an eye. Her 8 World Cup titles – a record in both men’s and women’s cricket – are a testament to her longevity and unparalleled success in major tournaments. Healy was not just a player; she was an entertainer, a force of nature who thrilled crowds around the world with her innovative strokeplay and unwavering competitive spirit.

Aussie players give a heartening tribute to Healy

The moment Healy was lifted onto the shoulders of her teammates will be forever etched in the minds of those who witnessed it. Following Australia’s resounding victory, which came in just 34.2 overs on the third day of the Test, the team clustered around their departing captain. In a touching gesture of respect and affection, Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner kneeled down, and Healy, with a wide smile and tears welling in her eyes, clambered onto their shoulders. The entire Australian team, flanked by a guard of honor formed by the Indian players, then began the “chairing” off ceremony, a tradition often reserved for retiring legends.

Here’s the video:

It took a second to get the process right chairing Alyssa Healy over to her sign 😂 pic.twitter.com/J9rSJTW3Ok

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) March 8, 2026

Also READ: Australia hand Alyssa Healy a winning farewell with 10 wickets win over India in the one-off Test

As Healy was carried around the WACA Ground, the crowd, including her family and friends, erupted in a thunderous standing ovation. Spectators waved flags, banners, and personalized signs, all celebrating the contribution she had made to the sport. The Indian players, led by their captain Harmanpreet Kaur, applauded warmly as she passed, in a fitting show of respect for a formidable opponent. Healy, clearly moved by the outpouring of love and admiration, waved to the crowd, blowing kisses and soaking in the atmosphere of her final moments on the international stage.

Also READ: AUS-W vs IND-W: Fans erupt as Annabel Sutherland lights up Perth with record-breaking century on Day 2 of the one-off Test

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.