India crush New Zealand to win third T20 World Cup
India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs on March 8 in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final in Ahmedabad, securing a historic third title and becoming the first team to successfully defend the trophy. The hosts dominated the final thanks to explosive batting and a clinical bowling display.
India set the tone early, posting a massive 255 for 5. Sanju Samson led the charge with a blistering 89 off 46 balls, while Abhishek Sharma added a rapid 52, putting New Zealand under immediate pressure.
The bowlers completed the job as Jasprit Bumrah produced a decisive spell of 4 for 15 to dismiss the Kiwis for 159, sealing a dominant victory in front of more than 80,000 fans.
“This win is extremely special,” Bumrah said after being named Player of the Match. Samson, who finished as Player of the Tournament, added: “God had it planned differently for me.”
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner admitted his side struggled against a stronger opponent, saying India were “simply better on the day.”
The triumph crowned a remarkable campaign built on collective performances and fearless cricket.