India edge England by seven runs to reach T20 World Cup Final

By SABC Sport
5th March 2026

In a high-octane thriller at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, India held their nerve to defeat England by 7 runs in the second semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

The hosts posted a formidable 253/7 after England captain Harry Brook won the toss and opted to field first on a batting-friendly pitch, then defended it with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding to secure their place in Sunday's final against New Zealand in Ahmedabad.

India's innings was powered by a blistering knock from Sanju Samson, who smashed 89 off just 42 balls, including 8 fours and 7 sixes. His aggressive intent set the tone early, as India raced to 67/1 in the powerplay. Ishan Kishan provided solid support with 39 off 18, while Shivam Dube contributed a quick 43 off 25.

Despite some late wickets - including run-outs and sharp work from Adil Rashid (2/41) and Will Jacks (2/40) - India's total of 253/7 featured 19 sixes and 18 fours, putting immense pressure on the chasing side.

England's reply was explosive but ultimately fell just short. Jacob Bethell played a sensational innings, scoring a century off 48 balls (105 with 8 fours and 7 sixes), keeping the chase alive deep into the innings with crucial partnerships, including a 77-run stand with Will Jacks (35 off 20).

Early blows from Hardik Pandya (2/38), who removed Phil Salt and later Sam Curran (18 off 14), and Jasprit Bumrah's key scalp of Harry Brook disrupted England's momentum, leaving them 95/4 at one stage.

Bethell's heroics brought England back into contention, reaching 222/6 with 32 needed off the last 10 balls, but India's bowlers - backed by tight overs from Varun Chakravarthy (1/64) and Axar Patel (1/35) - held firm. A crucial run-out of Bethell (105) in the 20th over sealed the game, with England finishing on 246/7.

This victory extends India's strong record in high-stakes encounters at home and avenges past semi-final battles against England in previous World Cups. With their blend of firepower and composure under pressure, India now march into the final as firm favorites. What a spectacle this semi-final was- pure T20 entertainment at its finest!