India Edge Thriller to Reach T20 World Cup Final Despite Bethell's Heroics

In a high-octane semifinal at the Wankhede Stadium, India withstood a breathtaking century from England's Jacob Bethell to secure a seven-run victory and a spot in the 2026 T20 World Cup final against New Zealand. The match, played on March 5, will be remembered for its record-breaking batting, electric atmosphere, and nerve-wracking finish.

Chasing a daunting 254 to win, England fell early, losing openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler inside the Powerplay. But 21-year-old left-hander Bethell launched a stunning counter-attack, hammering Varun Chakaravarthy for three sixes in the first three balls of his innings. He anchored the chase with a blistering 105 off just 48 balls, the highest individual score in a T20 World Cup knockout match, surpassing Finn Allen's 100 the previous day.

Despite Bethell’s brilliance and Will Jacks’ supporting 35, England’s hopes were shattered by a composed death bowling performance from India. Captain Hardik Pandya (2/38) struck early and returned in the penultimate over to restrict the scoring, conceding just three runs after Bethell’s opening six. The decisive moment came when Jasprit Bumrah delivered a near-perfect 18th over, conceding only six runs and shifting momentum irreversibly in India’s favor.

India had earlier posted 253/7, their highest ever in a T20 World Cup knockout game and the fourth-highest total in tournament history. Sanju Samson led the charge with a scintillating 89 off 42 balls, forming strong partnerships with Ishan Kishan (41) and Shivam Dube (43). The hosts plundered 63 runs in the final four overs, including 19 sixes overall — equalling a tournament record.

Bethell’s century, though in a losing cause, etched his name in history. He became the first batter to score his maiden first-class, List A, and T20 century in international cricket. His 19-ball half-century was also the joint fastest in a World Cup knockout, matching Finn Allen’s effort.

India now advances to their second consecutive final, having defended their title successfully in a nerve-wracking contest defined by fearless batting and clutch bowling under pressure. As one fan put it, "This wasn’t just a semifinal — it was a final in every sense."