T20 World Cup 2026 Semi Final: India scripts 7-run victory against England, enters final
PTC News Desk: India reached the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after defeating England national cricket team by seven runs in a thrilling semi-final at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday.
Sanju Samson's all-round brilliance earns him the Player of the Match award, a fitting recognition for his crucial role in India's narrow victory.
Batting first, India scored a huge total of 253/7 in 20 overs after England captain Harry Brook chose to field. Sanju Samson played a brilliant innings, scoring 89 runs off just 42 balls, with valuable contributions from other batters helping India reach a big score.
In reply, England fought hard in the chase, mainly due to an outstanding 105 off 48 balls from 22-year-old Jacob Bethell. The match stayed tense until the final overs. However, strong bowling at the death by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, along with brilliant fielding from Axar Patel, helped India secure the victory.
Axar Patel turned out to be the unsung hero of the match. He took two important catches, including a stunning 24-metre running catch, picked up a wicket, and also prevented a six before combining with Shivam Dube to run out Will Jacks at a crucial moment.
India will now face New Zealand national cricket team in the final on Sunday.
- With inputs from agencies
