Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Defending champions India produced a thrilling performance to defeat England by seven runs in a high-scoring semifinal at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, sealing their place in the final of the T20 World Cup. After the dramatic victory, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav admitted that the closing moments of the match were extremely tense, revealing that his heart rate had shot up to nearly 160-175 during the nail-biting finish.

Speaking after the match presentation, Suryakumar said the victory meant a lot for the entire team, especially with the tournament being played in India. He described the moment as special, highlighting the pride of leading such a talented team on home soil. According to him, reaching the final and preparing to play the title clash in Ahmedabad has created a wave of excitement among the players.

India posted a massive total of 253 runs after being sent in to bat. The innings was dominated by a stunning performance from opener Sanju Samson, who smashed a spectacular 89 off just 42 balls. His explosive innings included seven sixes and eight fours, setting the tone for India’s aggressive batting display. Valuable contributions also came from Shivam Dube with 43 runs, Ishan Kishan who added 39, Hardik Pandya with a quick 27, and Tilak Varma who chipped in with 21 runs.

Suryakumar praised Samson’s innings, saying the opener clearly knew his plan from the moment he walked to the crease. Even after wickets fell at the other end, Samson continued attacking because he believed the pitch was good for batting. The Indian captain described the knock as a reward for the hard work Samson had put in over the past year.

Despite the imposing total, the Indian skipper admitted that the team was unsure whether the score would be enough against England’s powerful batting lineup. Suryakumar even revealed a light moment during the match when he spoke to England captain Harry Brook, jokingly asking how many more runs India needed to feel safe.

England nearly pulled off a remarkable chase thanks to a sensational innings from Jacob Bethell, who smashed 105 runs from just 48 balls. However, his effort ultimately went in vain as England finished on 246 for seven in their 20 overs.

India’s bowlers held their nerve during the crucial final overs. Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah delivered a disciplined spell and conceded only 33 runs while applying pressure at the death. Hardik Pandya also played a key role with the ball, taking two wickets to slow down England’s chase.

Suryakumar credited the bowlers for turning the match in India’s favor during the closing stages. He also praised fielding coach T Dilip for improving the team’s fielding standards, noting that players have been putting in extra effort on the field.

With the semifinal victory secured, India will now face New Zealand national cricket team in the T20 World Cup final on Sunday. Suryakumar acknowledged that the final will bring pressure and nerves, but he emphasized that the team and support staff are excited about the opportunity to compete for the title on home soil.