Image Source: India Tv News.
In an absolute run-fest that will be etched in the history of the sport, India defeated England by 7 runs at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium yesterday (March 5, 2026) to secure their place in the T20 World Cup Final.
The second semi-final was a record-shattering encounter, producing a staggering 499 runs—the second-highest aggregate in the history of T20 Internationals.
The Samson Storm
After England captain Harry Brook won the toss and elected to field, India’s openers faced an early setback with the loss of Abhishek Sharma. However, Sanju Samson played the innings of a lifetime. Capitalizing on a dropped catch by Brook when he was only on 15, Samson blasted 89 runs off just 42 balls, including 8 fours and 7 sixes.
His aggression, paired with Shivam Dube’s explosive 43 and late-inning cameos from Hardik Pandya (27) and Tilak Varma (21), propelled India to a mammoth 253/7—the highest-ever total in a T20 World Cup knockout match.
A Heroic Chase by Jacob Bethell
England’s response was nothing short of legendary. Despite losing early wickets—including Phil Salt and Jos Buttler—young sensation Jacob Bethell kept the defending champions on their toes. Bethell smashed his maiden T20I century, a breathtaking 105 off 48 balls.
Alongside Will Jacks (35), Bethell brought England within striking distance, keeping the required rate manageable until the final moments.
The Turning Points
While the match was a batter’s paradise, it was India’s “Superman” in the field and the composure of their veteran bowlers that sealed the deal:
Axar Patel’s Brilliance: Axar took what many are calling the “catch of the tournament” to dismiss Harry Brook and later pulled off a sensational relay catch at the boundary to remove Will Jacks.
Bumrah’s Death Over: With England needing 45 from the last three overs, Jasprit Bumrah delivered a masterclass in the 18th over, conceding just 6 runs and suffocating the chase.
The Final Over Drama: England needed 30 off the final over. Bethell was tragically run out on the first ball while attempting a risky second run. Despite Jofra Archer hitting three late sixes, England finished at 246/7.
India – 253/7 (20)
Sanju Samson – (89 off 42)
England – 246/7 (20) Jacob Bethell – (105 off 48)
Result India won by 7 runs
What’s Next?
India now heads to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad this Sunday, March 8, to face New Zealand in the Grand Final, as they look to defend their crown and secure a historic third title.
