T20 World Cup Archives

ICC announces T20 World Cup team of the tournament

March 9, 2026 by Newsdesk

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled the Team of the Tournament for the T20 World Cup 2026, with Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan earning a place after an outstanding performance.

Farhan emerged as the top run-scorer of the tournament, amassing 383 runs in seven matches, including two centuries.

The Team of the Tournament features four players from India national cricket team, while England national cricket team and South Africa national cricket team each have two players in the lineup. One player each has been selected from Zimbabwe national cricket team and West Indies cricket team.

Presenting the #T20WorldCup 2026 Team of the Tournament 🤩👌

More 📲 https://t.co/b4x8qMPUL1 pic.twitter.com/NGInFcYa7S
— ICC (@ICC) March 9, 2026

Interestingly, no player from New Zealand national cricket team, despite reaching the final of the tournament, was included in the Team of the Tournament.

The selected lineup includes Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah from India.

From England, Will Jacks and Adil Rashid made the team, while Lungi Ngidi and Aiden Markram represented South Africa.

The lineup also features Blessing Muzarabani from Zimbabwe and Jason Holder from the West Indies.

Meanwhile, Shadley van Schalkwyk of the United States national cricket team has been named as the 12th player in the squad.

New Zealand ready to ‘Break a Few Hearts’ in T20 World Cup final: Santner

March 7, 2026 by Newsdesk

AHMEDABAD: Mitchell Santner says New Zealand would not mind “breaking a few hearts” when they face defending champions and hosts India national cricket team in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Sunday.

Speaking ahead of the title clash in Ahmedabad, the New Zealand captain acknowledged that his side will enter the match as underdogs but said the team is eager to seize the opportunity to lift the trophy.

More than 100,000 fans are expected to pack the Narendra Modi Stadium for the high-stakes final.

New Zealand reached the final of the tournament in 2021 but lost to Australia national cricket team and are still chasing their first white-ball World Cup title.

“I wouldn’t mind winning a trophy,” Santner said. “Everyone knows we’re probably not the favourites, but I wouldn’t mind breaking a few hearts to lift the trophy for once.”

New Zealand’s campaign in the tournament has been mixed. They delivered a dominant performance in the semi-final, thrashing South Africa national cricket team by nine wickets after Finn Allen smashed the fastest century of the competition.

However, the Black Caps also suffered defeats to South Africa and England national cricket team earlier in the tournament.

Santner pointed to the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket, saying one strong performance can turn the tide. “We saw South Africa playing very good cricket throughout, but they had one hiccup against us and were out,” he noted.

Meanwhile, India come into the final in formidable form with three consecutive wins and are aiming to become the first team to win back-to-back T20 World Cups as well as the first to lift the title on home soil. A victory would also give them a record third T20 World Cup triumph.

Santner admitted that playing before a packed stadium and millions watching worldwide could put extra pressure on the hosts.

“With such huge expectations, there’s always added pressure,” he said. “If we can go out there and apply that pressure on them, we’ll see what happens.”

India change hotel ahead of T20 World Cup final amid superstition claims

March 7, 2026 by Newsdesk

AHMEDABAD: The India national cricket team has reportedly changed its hotel in Ahmedabad ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final, with Indian media linking the move to superstition following past defeats.

According to Indian media reports, the team chose not to stay at the same hotel where it had lodged during the final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, where India suffered a defeat against the Australia national cricket team.

Reports suggest that the decision may have been influenced by the team’s desire to avoid repeating the circumstances associated with that loss. However, no official statement has been issued regarding the change of accommodation.

Indian media also reported that a member of the team’s support staff regularly offers prayers at every venue for the team’s success, while the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is providing all possible facilities to support the squad.

Earlier, ahead of the semi-final in Mumbai, India reportedly delayed a training session by about 45 minutes to avoid the effects of a lunar eclipse.

Meanwhile, the final in Ahmedabad is expected to be played on a red-soil pitch. India had earlier lost to the South Africa national cricket team on a black-soil pitch at the same venue two weeks ago. The stadium offers a variety of pitches, including red soil, black soil, and mixed surfaces.

Indian media further reported that India may also consider using the visiting team’s dressing room instead of the home dressing room at the venue in an apparent attempt to change their fortunes.

The T20 World Cup final between India and the New Zealand national cricket team is scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

New Zealand storm into final with 9-wicket win

March 4, 2026 by Newsdesk

KOLKATA: New Zealand delivered a commanding performance to defeat South Africa by nine wickets in the first semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, securing a place in the final in emphatic fashion.

After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to field first. South Africa posted 169 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs, with Marco Jansen top-scoring with an unbeaten 55.

Other notable contributions came from Dewald Brevis (34) and Tristan Stubbs (29), while Aiden Markram (18), Quinton de Kock (10), and David Miller (6) failed to convert their starts.

For New Zealand, Matt Henry, Glenn Phillips (if McConchie intended, assumed Phillips), and Rachin Ravindra claimed two wickets each to restrict the Proteas below the 170-mark.

In reply, New Zealand’s openers dismantled the South African bowling attack. Finn Allen produced a breathtaking innings, smashing the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. He reached his hundred in just 33 balls, hammering 10 fours and eight sixes, rewriting the tournament record books.

Allen found strong support from Tim Seifert, who scored 58, as the Black Caps chased down the target in just 13 overs for the loss of one wicket. Rachin Ravindra remained unbeaten on 13.

The previous record for the fastest century in T20 World Cup history was held by West Indies legend Chris Gayle, who scored a 47-ball hundred against England in 2016.

Meanwhile, the second semi-final will see India face England in Mumbai tomorrow, with the winner set to meet New Zealand in the grand finale.

Aleem Dar resigns from selection committee after T20 World Cup Exit

March 3, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: Following Pakistan’s worst-ever performance in the Super Four stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and the team’s early exit from the tournament, national selection committee member Aleem Dar has decided to resign.

According to highly reliable sources, the ICC Elite Panel umpire stepped down over what he described as extraordinary interference in selection matters by head coach Mike Hesson, along with the silence of influential selection committee member Aaqib Javed.

Aleem Dar reportedly complained that selectors had initially announced Pakistan’s best 20 players, but the captain and coach later finalized what he termed the “wrong 15,” followed by questionable choices in the playing XI. As a result, he believed selectors were left to face public criticism for decisions they did not fully control.

During the tournament, Dar had raised reservations over the inclusion of former captain Babar Azam and all-rounder Shadab Khan, citing their lack of recent performance. He also expressed concerns over captain Salman Ali Agha, claiming he did not merit a place in the squad as captain. According to sources, coach Hesson had the final authority in selection matters.

Dar had further proposed that experienced wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan be played at number six instead of Usman Khan. He argued that if underperforming players were being given opportunities, Rizwan also deserved another chance.

In the current circumstances, Aleem Dar’s resignation is being viewed as a principled stand. Sources say he believes cricket has brought him immense respect and that he does not wish to serve as a mere figurehead, making it preferable for him to step down.

PCB plans major overhaul after T20 World Cup exit

March 2, 2026 by Newsdesk

LAHORE: In the wake of Pakistan’s underwhelming T20 World Cup campaign, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly decided to carry out another major overhaul of the national side. Sources indicate that star batter Babar Azam and several other players are being considered for exclusion from the T20 setup.

Despite reaching the Super Eight stage, Pakistan endured a disappointing tournament overall. The team failed to register a single victory against top-tier sides and narrowly avoided defeat in their final group-stage clash against Sri Lanka.

The Green Shirts were fortunate to escape an upset loss to the Netherlands in their opening match. Their much-anticipated encounter with India ended in another defeat, continuing a recent trend in high-profile contests between the two rivals. Wins against Asia and Namibia helped Pakistan secure a Super Eight berth.

However, their Super Eight campaign faltered. The opening fixture against New Zealand was washed out due to rain, followed by a loss to England that left the team dependent on other results. Although Pakistan managed to defeat Sri Lanka, an inferior net run rate ultimately knocked them out of semifinal contention.

PCB officials have signaled that accountability will be strictly enforced, with sweeping changes expected as part of efforts to rebuild the T20 squad ahead of upcoming international assignments.

While, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering imposing fines on players for substandard performances in the recent T20 World Cup, sources say.

According to insiders, the board is contemplating a proposal to levy fines of PKR 5 million on each player, following Pakistan’s disappointing defeat against India. PCB officials have held consultations on strict measures to ensure accountability within the squad.

Officials emphasized that future financial incentives will be strictly linked to on-field performance. The board has sent a clear message to the players that leniency will no longer be tolerated.

Team management has also been instructed to implement strategies to improve performance, with PCB signaling that rigorous evaluation and accountability processes will continue. A final decision on the matter is expected to be announced soon.

T20 World Cup: Pakistan face net run rate test against Sri Lanka

February 27, 2026 by Newsdesk

Colombo: Following New Zealand’s defeat to England in a thrilling Super 8 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan national cricket team have kept their semi-final hopes alive — but a daunting challenge now awaits the Green Shirts.

England’s dramatic victory over the New Zealand cricket team has opened the door for Pakistan to qualify for the last four. However, Pakistan must overcome significant hurdles in their final Super 8 fixture.

Pakistan will play their decisive match in Kandy on Saturday, effectively a knockout contest to stay in the tournament. The equation is clear yet demanding: Pakistan must not only secure victory but also improve their net run rate substantially.

To qualify for the semi-finals, Pakistan need to defeat the Sri Lanka national cricket team by at least 65 runs if batting first. In case of a run chase, Pakistan must reach the target within 13 overs to surpass New Zealand on net run rate.

Meanwhile, tournament hosts Sri Lanka have suffered a major setback ahead of the crucial clash. Star batter Kusal Mendis has been ruled out of the match against Pakistan due to a hamstring injury and is expected to remain sidelined for four weeks.

With qualification hanging in the balance, all eyes will now be on Kandy as Pakistan aim to keep their title dreams alive.

England’s four-wicket win puts Pakistan’s fate in crucial decider

February 27, 2026 by Newsdesk

COLOMBO: England cricket team defeated New Zealand cricket team by four wickets in a gripping Super 8 clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, keeping Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals alive.

After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to bat first. The Black Caps posted a competitive total of 159 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Glenn Phillips top-scored with 39 runs, while Tim Seifert contributed 35 and Finn Allen added 29.

England’s bowling attack shared the spoils, with Will Jacks, Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid claiming two wickets each to restrict New Zealand below the 160-mark.

In reply, England chased down the target in the final over, losing four wickets in the process. The victory propelled England to the top of the group standings with six points.

Following New Zealand’s defeat, Pakistan national cricket team remain in contention for a semi-final berth.

The fate of the second semi-final spot between Pakistan and New Zealand will now be decided in Pakistan’s crucial clash against Sri Lanka national cricket team on Friday.

Pakistan must secure a comprehensive win over Sri Lanka to boost their net run rate; otherwise, New Zealand — currently on three points — could advance to the semi-finals on superior net run rate.

Record four centuries scored in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026

February 26, 2026 by Newsdesk

A new record for the most centuries in a single edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has been set during the ongoing tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

So far, four centuries have been scored in the 2026 edition — the highest ever in one T20 World Cup.

Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka struck a century against Australia, while Canada’s Yuvraj Samra reached three figures against New Zealand.

Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan then scored a century against Namibia, setting a new record of three hundreds in a single edition of the tournament.

The tally rose to four after England captain Harry Brook smashed a century against Pakistan during the Super 8 stage.

Previously, no T20 World Cup edition had produced more than two centuries.

In the inaugural 2007 tournament, only one century was recorded, while none were scored in 2009. The 2010 edition saw two centuries, followed by one in 2012. Both the 2014 and 2016 editions produced two centuries each.

There was one century in 2021 and two in 2022, while no hundreds were registered in the 2024 edition.

With several key matches still to be played, the 2026 tournament could see the record extended even further.

India crush Zimbabwe by 72 runs in Super 8 match

February 26, 2026 by Newsdesk

In the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, India registered a dominant 72-run victory over Zimbabwe in Chennai, strengthening their bid for a semifinal spot.

Chasing a daunting 257-run target, Zimbabwe managed 184 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs.

After being invited to bat first, India’s batters dismantled the Zimbabwe bowling attack, smashing boundaries and sixes at will to post one of the biggest totals in tournament history.

India piled up a massive 256 for 4 in 20 overs, hitting a total of 17 sixes during the innings.

Sanju Samson scored 24, Abhishek Sharma made 55, Ishan Kishan added 38, while captain Suryakumar Yadav contributed 33 runs. In the death overs, Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma unleashed a brutal assault on the bowlers. Pandya smashed 53 off 23 balls, while Tilak remained unbeaten on 44 off just 16 deliveries.

India’s 256 is the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history. The highest remains Sri Lanka’s 260 against Kenya in the inaugural 2007 edition. It is also the highest score of the 2026 tournament so far, surpassing West Indies’ 254 against Zimbabwe earlier in the competition. Notably, it is India’s highest-ever total against any team in T20 World Cup history.

In response, Zimbabwe posted 184 for 6 in 20 overs. Opener Brian Bennett played a valiant unbeaten knock of 97, while captain Sikandar Raza scored 31.

Following the defeat, Zimbabwe were eliminated from the semifinal race. From Super 8 Group 1, South Africa have already secured qualification for the semifinals.

The second semifinalist from the group will be decided after Sunday’s crucial clash between India and West Indies. The winner of that encounter will advance to the next stage.

Zimbabwe are scheduled to play their final Super 8 match against South Africa.