ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history witnessed a record-breaking moment as India national cricket team set a massive 256-run target for New Zealand national cricket team in the final.
New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Batting first, India posted 255/5 in 20 overs, smashing 19 fours and 18 sixes.
This total is now the highest score ever in a T20 World Cup final, surpassing the previous record of 176 runs.
Samson Leads India’s Batting Charge
India’s explosive start was led by opener Sanju Samson, who scored 89 runs, while Abhishek Sharma contributed 52 and Ishan Kishan added 54. The aggressive batting helped India cross the 200-run mark in just 15 overs, putting immense pressure on New Zealand’s bowling attack.
However, in the 16th over, New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham slowed India’s momentum with a dramatic spell. He dismissed Suryakumar Yadav for 0, along with Ishan Kishan (54) and Sanju Samson (89) in quick succession.
As a result, India managed 52 runs in the final five overs, with 24 runs coming in the 20th over.
Key Records Created in the Indian Innings
- Highest total in a T20 World Cup final: 255/5.
- Fastest team 100 in a World Cup knockout match: Reached in 7.2 overs.
- Highest powerplay score in a T20 World Cup: Surpassed the previous record of 92/1 set in 2024.
- Highest individual score in a T20 World Cup final: Sanju Samson’s 89, breaking Marlon Samuels record of 85 for the West Indies cricket team.
With a record target of 256, New Zealand now faces one of the biggest run chases ever in a T20 World Cup final.