The Times of India

Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhtar commends India coach Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir strongly advocated for Sanju Samson's inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad. Samson has since delivered exceptional performances. His batting has been a major highlight of the tournament. He has scored significantly and broken records. This has helped India reach the final.

Can India erase bad memories in Ahmedabad with T20 World Cup title? Pressure will be key!

T20 World Cup: Suryakumar Yadav press conference before IND vs NZ

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Struggling for form in the 2026 T20 World Cup, Abhishek Sharma quietly received support from his biggest backer. On the eve of the final in Ahmedabad, Rajkumar Sharma, his father, and childhood coach watched from afar during Indias nets, offering silent belief that the opener can rediscover his touch on the biggest night. India will take on New Zealand in the final on Sunday.

Lakshya Sen has reached the All England Open Badminton Championships final. He defeated Victor Lai in a tough semifinal. This marks his second appearance in the title match. Sen battled through pain to secure the win. He joins Prakash Padukone as the only Indian to achieve this feat twice. Sen will now face Lin Chun-Yi in the final.

Michael Vaughan has criticized the ICC's unequal treatment of teams exiting the T20 World Cup, highlighting England's swift charter flight home while West Indies and South Africa remain stranded in Kolkata. He argued that a team's influence at the ICC should not dictate their post-elimination travel arrangements, emphasizing fair treatment for all.

Despite England's T20 World Cup semi-final exit, head coach Brendon McCullum remains confident in his team's white-ball setup, emphasizing a nurturing environment for talent. He dismissed notions of a casual operation, stating their informal approach fosters freedom for players to execute skills. McCullum also lauded captain Harry Brook's significant growth and the emerging identity of the team under his leadership.

Suryakumar Yadav press conference: On India XI, responds to Santner, coach Gambhir

Suryakumar Yadav playfully dismissed Mitchell Santner's pre-final vow to silence the Ahmedabad crowd, calling such remarks a tired clich. He emphasized the positive dressing room atmosphere as India, the defending champions, prepare to face New Zealand in Sunday's T20 World Cup final, aiming to lift the trophy on home soil.

Michael Clarke has lauded Jasprit Bumrah as the most crucial bowler in world cricket ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 final. The former Australian captain believes Bumrah's ability to execute under pressure makes him a dominant match-winner, capable of deciding the title clash and earning Player of the Match honors.

Ahmedabad gears up for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final between India and New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Indian Railways is running special trains from New Delhi and Western Railway from Mumbai to aid fans amidst high flight fares. The event will feature a star-studded closing ceremony with Ricky Martin, Falguni Pathak, and Sukhwinder Singh.

Dale Steyn has controversially suggested New Zealand could inherit the 'chokers' tag if they lose the T20 World Cup 2026 final to India. The former Proteas bowler pointed to New Zealand's repeated near misses in ICC finals, stating they must win to avoid this label. Steyn believes India holds a significant advantage in Ahmedabad.

India faces New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup final at Ahmedabad. Despite India's recent series win, former Australian players Brad Haddin and Nathan Lyon back New Zealand. They highlight opener Finn Allen's potential threat and captain Mitchell Santner's bowling prowess as key factors for the Black Caps, who they believe don't fear playing in India.

T20 World Cup: Mitchell Santner press conference before IND vs NZ

India and New Zealand are set to clash in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final in Ahmedabad on Sunday. India, the defending champions, reached the final after a close semi-final win against England, while New Zealand dominated South Africa. This marks India's fourth final appearance and New Zealand's second, with both teams aiming for a significant title.

New Zealand, the good boys of cricket, are ready to take the big boys, India, on in their own backyard at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The crowd, noise and burden of expectations will be a challenge, and Kiwis are ready to embrace it.

The T20 World Cup final between India national cricket team and New Zealand national cricket team in Ahmedabad is unlikely to be affected by rain, as clear skies are forecast. If weather disrupts play, ICC rules allow extra time and a reserve day. Should the match still remain incomplete, both teams will share the trophy. Temperatures may be hot during the day but cooler at night.

Pandyas direct throw at the strikers end in the final over of Englands chase ended Bethells innings of 102. After the dismissal, the 32-year-old reacted with an animated celebration and tried to lift the teams energy. Pandya later said the reaction came because his son Agastya and girlfriend Mahieka Sharma were watching the match from the stands, and he wanted them to experience his emotions at that moment.

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif proposes a significant change for the T20 World Cup 2026 final. He believes out-of-form opener Abhishek Sharma should be rested for the summit clash against New Zealand. Kaif suggests Rinku Singh as a replacement, highlighting his consistent performances across formats. He also contrasts Sharma's inexperience in ICC events with Sanju Samson's established status.

England's women cricketers have shifted their T20 World Cup prep camp to South Africa due to security concerns in Abu Dhabi. Around 30 players will compete in an intra-squad series in Pretoria, split into two teams named after former legends. This move aims to intensify competition for World Cup spots.

India faces New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final, aiming to defend their title and become three-time champions. Despite a previous loss to South Africa, India reached the final after a strong semi-final win. New Zealand, however, holds a perfect 3-0 record against India in T20 World Cups, seeking their maiden title.

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Ravichandran Ashwin observed Varun Chakravarthy's bowling struggles, noting a dip in confidence when attacked early. Despite a wicket, Chakravarthy conceded 64 runs in the T20 World Cup semi-final, a costly spell. Ashwin advised tactical adjustments and warned against bowling round the wicket to left-handers, emphasizing the need for improved length and line variations.

Aymeric Laporte says Athletic Bilbao are treating their La Liga clash with Barcelona 'like a final' as they aim to upset the league leaders at San Mames. The defender stressed defensive discipline against Barcelonas possession game while reiterating Bilbaos step-by-step approach this season in their push toward European qualification.

Shoaib Akhtar praised Will Jacks after his all-round effort against India national cricket team in the T20 World Cup semifinal, calling him Goron ka Hardik Pandya. Jacks took two wickets, including Sanju Samson, and scored 35 runs. Despite his performance, England lost by seven runs as India advanced to the final.

India national cricket team will face New Zealand national cricket team in the 2026 T20 World Cup final at Narendra Modi Stadium, aiming to defend their title after beating England in the semifinal. If rain disrupts the match, officials will try to finish it the same day or use a reserve day. If no result is possible, both teams share the title. A tie will be decided through repeated Super Overs until a winner emerges.

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Gukesh Dommarajus emotional apology during the Prague Masters highlighted a broader dip in form among Indias top players, including Arjun Erigaisi and Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa. Experts cite heavy schedules, distractions from fame, repetitive elite events and overreliance on engine preparation as factors. It is also likely that the slump is temporary.

Axar Patel produced two stunning catches and a key wicket to help India national cricket team defeat England national cricket team in the T20 World Cup semifinal at Wankhede Stadium. His efforts broke crucial partnerships and lifted Indias fielding display. Axar now looks forward to playing the final against New Zealand national cricket team in Ahmedabad before his family.

Harry Brook backed Brendon McCullum as Englands all-format coach after their narrow T20 World Cup semifinal loss to India national cricket team. Calling McCullum the best coach hes had, Brook praised his leadership and impact on English cricket. Despite Englands exit, Brook expressed pride in the teams campaign and admitted dropping Sanju Samson proved costly.

New Zealand, a nation of just 5.3 million, has achieved remarkable cricket success, reaching eight ICC finals in the past decade and winning the 2021 World Test Championship. Ahead of the T20 World Cup final against India, Glenn Phillips highlighted the contrast in talent pools but praised Indias depth. He warned New Zealand wont underestimate Varun Chakravarthy or Jasprit Bumrah.

Lakshya Sen reached the semifinals of the All England Championship after defeating former champion Li Shi Feng 21-13, 21-16 in Birmingham. The Indian shuttler dominated both games with strong smashes and solid defence. This marks his third semifinal appearance at the tournament. Lakshya will next face the winner between Japans Koki Watanabe and Canadas Victor Lai.

India leave Mumbai for Ahmedabad | Team India heads to T20 World Cup final vs New Zealand

With 13 wickets to his name, Varun Chakravarthy is currently the joint-leading wicket-taker of the 2026 T20 World Cup. In the first four matches, he picked up nine wickets at an economy rate of 5.17. In the last four games, however, he has leaked runs at 11.63 while picking up just four wickets. The mystery spinner is struggling with his lengths and has been taken to the cleaners, which is not a good sign for India ahead of the final against New Zealand.

Sanju Samson has been one of Indias standout players in the World Cup, scoring 97* against West Indies and 89 against England in the semifinal. The 31-year-old credits his experience and clarity about his role for the performances. After years of inconsistent opportunities, Samson has finally made a strong impact and is now shortlisted for Player of the Tournament.

Jasprit Bumrahs relentless training, including repeated yorker drills in practice, reflects his hunger to stay the best despite years of success and injuries. The 32-year-old pacer delivered another crucial performance in Indias World Cup semifinal against England, controlling the game with precise bowling. Praised by England captain Harry Brook, Bumrah continues proving why he remains Indias most reliable bowler.

The MilanCortina Winter Paralympics opened in Italy on Friday but were overshadowed by controversy after Russian athletes marched under their national flag for the first time since 2014. The move drew boos and led several countries, including Ukraine and Poland, to boycott the ceremony. Over 600 athletes will compete in six sports until March 15. Officials emphasised peace, inclusion and solidarity.

Real Madrid edged Celta Vigo 21 in La Liga thanks to Federico Valverdes heavily deflected 95th-minute strike. Aurelien Tchouameni gave Madrid an early lead, but Borja Iglesias quickly equalised. Missing several key players, including Kylian Mbappe, Madrid struggled but secured victory late on. The win moves them within one point of leaders Barcelona and ends a two-game league losing streak ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester City.

Liverpool reached the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 31 win over Wolves, avenging a recent league defeat. Andrew Robertsons long-range strike and Mohamed Salahs quick follow-up put them ahead before Curtis Jones sealed victory. Hwang Hee-chan scored late. The win keeps Liverpools fading season alive in the Champions League hopes.

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Former England pacer Steve Harmison has cast doubt on Jos Buttler's continued motivation for international cricket following a disappointing T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. Buttler struggled significantly, scoring only 87 runs and failing to register a half-century. Harmison urged Buttler to self-reflect on his desire to continue, suggesting it might be time for a new generation if his passion wanes.

UEFA has fined Real Madrid 15,000 euros and ordered a partial stadium closure. This action follows a supporter's Nazi salute before a Champions League match. The club identified and removed the individual. Real Madrid condemned the gesture. The incident occurred before their match against Benfica. The Spanish club will face Manchester City next.

Team India's unconventional batting order paid dividends in the T20 World Cup semi-final. Shivam Dube's mature knock at number four, expertly handling spinner Adil Rashid, proved pivotal. His calculated approach, focusing on singles and punishing loose deliveries, eased pressure and set a strong foundation for India's commanding total against England.

West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein expressed frustration over the team's delayed return from India following their T20 World Cup exit, even jokingly asking Cristiano Ronaldo for a rescue. International travel disruptions due to escalating geopolitical tensions have impacted the squad's journey home, despite Cricket West Indies arranging a charter flight.

Kapil Dev lauded Jasprit Bumrah as the world's number one bowler after his crucial spell in India's T20 World Cup semi-final win over England. He also praised Sanju Samson's consistent batting. India now faces New Zealand in the final, aiming for multiple historic achievements.

Sanju Samson has become a key player for India in the T20 World Cup 2026. He delivered crucial performances, including a 97 against West Indies and 89 in the semi-final against England. Samson's form earned him a Player of the Tournament nomination. He now holds the record for most sixes by an Indian in a single T20 World Cup edition.

Mumbai Indians unveiled their new jersey for IPL 2026, featuring a repeating 'M' motif symbolizing the franchise's identity and philosophy. The design, in signature blue and gold, aims to represent the team's collective energy and forward-driving spirit. This fresh look comes as the team aims to end their championship drought and potentially secure a record sixth IPL title.

Suryakumar Yadavs childhood friend backs him to win World Cup for India