Shivam Dube's stint takes India's total to 255/5 against New Zealand

Team India put on a batting masterclass in the T20 World Cup 2026 final, posting a colossal total of 255/5 against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium. After a record-breaking start by the top order, the middle overs saw a slight dip in momentum as James Neesham struck thrice in a single over, removing Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav. However, the Men in Blue regained their footing in the death overs, ensuring they set the highest-ever total in the history of T20 World Cup finals.

The finishing touches were provided by Shivam Dube, who walked in during the 19th over and immediately took the attack to the Kiwi bowlers. Dube remained unbeaten on 26 off just 8 deliveries, a strike rate of 325 that effectively killed any hope New Zealand had of a late comeback. His short but impactful stay included a flurry of boundaries and towering sixes, including 25 runs coming off the final over of the innings.

Earlier, the foundation was laid by sensational half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan. Abhishek gave India a flying start with an 18-ball fifty, while Samson played the anchor-turned-aggressor with a brilliant 89. Despite the flurry of wickets in the 16th over, India’s deep batting lineup allowed them to stay aggressive, with Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma contributing useful runs before Dube’s final explosion.

New Zealand now face a daunting task of chasing down 256 runs at a required rate of 12.8 per over. The pitch in Ahmedabad has shown signs of being a batter’s paradise, but the sheer scoreboard pressure in a World Cup final could prove to be the biggest hurdle for the Black Caps. As the lights take full effect, the Indian bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, will look to defend this record total and secure India’s third T20 World title.