India defeated England by seven runs in a thrilling semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The hosts set the tone with a commanding batting performance, spearheaded by a brilliant knock of 89 from Sanju Samson. He was well supported by valuable cameos from Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma, as India piled up 253 runs in the first innings — their second-highest total in T20 World Cup history.
England, however, refused to back down in the chase. Despite losing three wickets in the powerplay, the side led by Harry Brook kept the pressure on India with a determined batting display.
The highlight of England’s fightback was a sensational innings from Jacob Bethell, who smashed 105 runs off just 48 balls to keep his team in contention. Will Jacks also contributed a quick 35, but Bethell carried the chase deep into the final overs before India regained control.
A crucial turning point came through an outstanding fielding effort by Axar Patel. After diving to take a spectacular catch, he cleverly tossed the ball back in play as he neared the boundary, allowing Dube to complete the dismissal of Jacks.
In the closing stages, India’s bowlers held their nerve. Jasprit Bumrah delivered another masterclass in the death overs, while Pandya and Arshdeep Singh provided strong support to restrict England.
Needing 30 runs from the final over, England’s hopes were dented immediately when Bethell was run out off the first ball. Although Jofra Archer struck a couple of sixes in the remaining deliveries, it was not enough as India clinched a dramatic seven-run victory to book their place in the final.
