Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan each scored explosive half-centuries, propelling defending champions India to a massive 255/5 against New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This total is the highest at the venue and the third-highest in Men’s T20 World Cup history, showcasing India’s dominant performance.
India’s top three batsmen set an aggressive tone from the start, with impressive strike rates. Samson scored 89 off 46 balls at a strike rate of 193.47, Abhishek hit 54 off 25 balls at 247.61, and Kishan made 54 off 25 balls at a strike rate of 216. The team’s strong start was crucial in building a formidable total.
Despite several opportunities for India to reach a score of 280 or more, New Zealand’s James Neesham’s 3-46 slowed down the scoring rate. However, Shivam Dube’s late onslaught, scoring 26 off just eight balls at a strike rate of 325, pushed India past the 250-run mark, setting a challenging target for New Zealand.
India’s aggressive batting approach put New Zealand on the back foot early on, with runs flowing freely. New Zealand’s bowlers struggled to contain the Indian batsmen, resorting to slower deliveries and off-target bowling. The pitch conditions favored the Indian batters, who capitalized on the opportunity to score heavily.
In a power-packed batting display, India’s top order, led by Samson, Abhishek, and Kishan, showcased their prowess with a flurry of boundaries and sixes. Abhishek’s quick half-century off just 18 balls set the tone for India’s dominant performance, as they amassed 92 runs in the power-play overs. The aggressive intent displayed by the Indian batsmen put New Zealand under immense pressure.
As the innings progressed, India’s batsmen continued to attack, with Samson and Kishan reaching their respective milestones in style. However, Neesham’s crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs halted India’s momentum briefly. Despite losing wickets towards the end, India’s strong finish, courtesy of Dube’s explosive hitting, ensured a formidable total of 255/5.
