Mumbai: In a heart-pounding thriller at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Team India scripted a stunning comeback to defeat England by a slender margin of seven runs in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final, securing their fourth appearance in the tournament’s summit clash.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India unleashed a batting blitzkrieg, amassing a formidable 253 runs on the board. With a blistering 89 that combined elegance and power, Sanju Samson spearheaded the attack, while Shivam Dube’s aggressive 43 and Ishan Kishan’s quickfire 39 provided crucial momentum. The innings set a record target, challenging England’s renowned chasing prowess.
England’s response was electric, spearheaded by Jacob Bethell’s magnificent maiden T20I (Twenty20 International) century of 105, laced with audacious strokes. Partnering with in-form Sam Curran, Bethell propelled England to 209 for the loss of a few wickets by the 17th over, needing just 45 runs from the final 18 balls. Victory seemed within grasp for the Brits.
But India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah turned the tide with a masterful 18th over, leaking only six runs and stifling the momentum. Hardik Pandya then delivered under pressure in the 19th, claiming Curran’s wicket and restricting the over to nine runs. Shivam Dube delivered the crucial breakthrough by dismissing Bethell on the first delivery in the death over. England faltered to 246, falling agonisingly short.
Bumrah emerged as the hero, with an economical figure of 1/33 in his four overs. The match, which saw a staggering 499 runs in total, showcased T20 cricket at its explosive best.