Desk News : Voice of Calcutta

India Storm into T20 World Cup Final, Defeat

by 7 Runs at Wankhede

Mumbai: Nearly four decades after a painful defeat at the same venue, India finally avenged their loss against England at the Wankhede Stadium. In a thrilling semifinal clash, India defeated England by 7 runs to book a place in the T20 World Cup final.

The victory carries emotional significance for Indian cricket fans. Back in 1987, Kapil Dev’s India had suffered a heartbreaking World Cup semifinal defeat to England at the same ground. After 39 years, a new generation of Indian cricketers finally delivered revenge on the historic stage.

Batting first, India posted an imposing 253 for 7. England fought hard in the chase but eventually fell short at 246 for 7. Despite the defeat, England’s Jacob Bethell played a sensational innings of 105 off 48 balls, keeping the match alive until the final moments.

Celebration Begins in Mumbai

The excitement began even before the match started. Fans gathered along Marine Drive waving the Indian tricolour, dancing to drums and chanting “Chak De India”.

The Wankhede Stadium was packed with celebrities. Bollywood stars Anil Kapoor, Ranbir Kapoor, and Alia Bhatt were spotted cheering from the VIP box.

In the press box, journalists were also treated to sweets. It was later revealed that Sachin Tendulkar had sent the sweets from the Siddhivinayak Temple as part of celebrations for his son Arjun Tendulkar’s wedding.

Sanju Samson Leads India’s Batting Charge

India’s innings was anchored by a spectacular performance from Sanju Samson. Continuing his aggressive form from the previous match at Eden Gardens, Samson attacked England’s bowling from the start.

His battle with England’s pace spearhead Jofra Archer was expected to shape the match—and Samson dominated the contest with fearless stroke play.

He scored 89 runs off 42 balls, smashing 8 fours and 7 sixes, narrowly missing out on a century for the second consecutive match.

He received strong support from:

Shivam Dube – 43 off 25 balls

Ishan Kishan – 39 off 18 balls

Hardik Pandya – 27 off 12 balls

Their explosive batting helped India reach a formidable total of 253.

Bethell’s Lone Battle

Chasing 254, England needed a strong start but struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack.

However, Jacob Bethell refused to give up. He kept England in the hunt with an extraordinary counterattack. Will Jacks briefly supported him before getting dismissed for 35 runs, which shifted the momentum back in India’s favour.

Bethell continued to fight alone, scoring a brilliant 105 runs from 48 balls before being run out. His dismissal finally sealed the victory for India.

Bowling Concerns Before Final

Despite the victory, India will have concerns regarding their bowling. Spinner Varun Chakravarthy had a difficult outing, conceding 64 runs in four overs, raising questions ahead of the final.

India Face New Zealand in the Final

India will now face New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final on Sunday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera.

The team now stands on the brink of history. If they win, India could become the first team to win back-to-back T20 World Cup titles, marking a historic achievement for Suryakumar Yadav’s side.

After avenging a Year-old defeat, India are now just one step away from lifting the trophy

Desk News : Voice of Calcutta