Team India scripted history during the 2026 T20 World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad by registering a record-breaking powerplay score against New Zealand. Indian openers Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson produced a sensational start, guiding India to 92 runs without losing a wicket in the first six overs.
The total is the highest powerplay score in the history of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. It equalled the previous record of 92/1 set by the West Indies against Afghanistan, but India achieved the feat without losing a wicket, making it a rare milestone in the tournament’s history.
India, however, began the innings cautiously as New Zealand bowlers Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips conceded just 12 runs in the first two overs. The slow start briefly boosted confidence in the New Zealand camp before the Indian openers shifted gears.
The momentum turned dramatically from the third over when Jacob Duffy was taken for 15 runs, triggering an aggressive assault from the Indian batters. Lockie Ferguson conceded 24 runs in one over, while Matt Henry followed by giving away 21 runs, with the Kiwi bowlers also delivering eight wides under pressure.
Abhishek Sharma led the charge with his trademark aggressive batting, bringing up a blazing half-century off just 18 balls, while Sanju Samson provided solid support with controlled strokeplay. By the end of the powerplay, India had raced to 92 runs without loss, putting New Zealand under immense pressure and firmly taking control of the final.