The Narendra Modi Stadium was a sight to behold during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, featuring a dazzling mid-innings laser show and fireworks that delighted the attending fans. Leading up to the high-stakes cricket match between India and New Zealand, performances by Falguni Pathak, Sukhbir Singh, and Ricky Martin set the stage for excitement.
India’s top order displayed exceptional form, with Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan delivering explosive half-centuries, propelling the defending champions to a formidable 255/5 total. This score, achieved on a flat mixed-soil pitch, stands as the highest ever at the stadium and the third-highest in Men’s T20 World Cup history. Samson’s 89 off 46 balls, Abhishek’s 52 off 21 balls, and Kishan’s 54 off 25 deliveries were instrumental in India’s strong performance.
The Indian innings started cautiously but quickly escalated as New Zealand bowlers struggled to contain the flow of boundaries. Abhishek Sharma’s rapid fifty off just 18 balls set the tone for a record-breaking powerplay, while Samson and Kishan continued the aggressive batting display in the middle overs, marking India’s 100th six of the tournament along the way.
By the 15th over, India had already surpassed the previous highest team total in a T20 World Cup final, showcasing their dominance. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar commended the duo, highlighting Samson’s strategic batting approach and Kishan’s exceptional bat speed and shot-making abilities. Despite New Zealand’s late resurgence through James Neesham’s crucial wickets, Shivam Dube’s late blitz ensured India crossed the 250-run mark, positioning them strongly to defend their title.
