Salt Assault Completes the Batting Set for RCB Before Home Stretch Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Phil Salt delivered a masterclass in T20 batting during a high-stakes encounter against Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2026, showcasing his ability to dominate under pressure and elevate his team’s fortunes. The innings, which featured a breathtaking 36-ball onslaught, not only secured a commanding start for RCB but also solidified their batting credentials ahead of their upcoming home stretch. Salt’s performance, marked by precision, power, and adaptability, highlighted his role as a key asset in the tournament’s middle phase. Salt’s approach to the game was methodical, as he has always been known for his meticulous preparation. Before the match, he analyzed pitch conditions, bowler tendencies, and potential strategies to exploit weaknesses. However, the challenge he faced against Mumbai Indians was unexpected. The team’s decision to introduce spin early in the powerplay disrupted Salt’s usual rhythm, yet he adapted with remarkable flair. The first over from left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner proved to be a turning point, as Salt capitalized on the bowler’s errors to launch a six-hitting spree that left the opposition reeling. The innings began with RCB in a commanding position, having raced to 41 for 0 after a brisk start. Salt, batting alongside Devdutt Padikkal, took charge of the innings by dispatching deliveries short of length with ruthless efficiency. The first ball of Santner’s over was a gift, and Salt pulled it for a six, drawing applause from Virat Kohli, who tapped his hand on the bat in celebration. The next ball, Santner overcompensated by bowling fuller, and Salt punished the mistake with a towering six that cleared the long-on boundary.#mitchell_santner #virat_kohli #royal_challengers_bengaluru #mumbai_indians #phil_salt
Mumbai Indians banks on a galaxy of stars to end drought Mumbai Indians is aiming to break its title drought in the Indian Premier League, relying on a star-studded squad to secure its first championship since 2020. The franchise, which has historically dominated the league with five titles in eight seasons, has struggled in the past five editions, failing to reach the final. However, the team is optimistic that its current roster, bolstered by key acquisitions and a strong Indian core, can end this slump. The decision to appoint Hardik Pandya as captain, following his return to Mumbai after a successful stint with his alma mater, has sparked debate among fans and analysts. Despite the controversy, the team has shown resilience, qualifying for the last-four stage in 2025 after a disappointing 2024 campaign. With the IPL 2026 season set to begin on March 26, the focus is on building momentum early and overcoming past struggles as a slow starter. The squad has been strengthened with the return of mystery spinner Allah Ghazanfar, who missed the previous season due to injury. The addition of Sherfane Rutherford provides much-needed middle-order depth, while Mitchell Santner offers all-round stability. The team also welcomes Will Jacks and Corbin Bosch, both of whom performed well in the T20 World Cup. Trent Boult brings experience with the new ball, and Ryan Rickelton enhances the top order. Quinton de Kock serves as a reliable backup for the wicketkeeper-batter role. Mumbai’s Indian contingent remains one of its greatest assets. A fit Rohit Sharma at the top of the order, Suryakumar Yadav anchoring the middle, and Tilak Varma injecting youthful energy form a formidable batting unit.#mitchell_santner #hardik_pandya #mumbai_indians #allah_ghazanfar #sherfane_rutherford
New Zealand Crush South Africa by 8 Wickets to Take 2-1 Series Lead New Zealand secured a dominant 8-wicket victory over South Africa in the third T20I of the five-match series, extending their lead to 2-1. The match, played on a challenging pitch in Auckland, saw the Kiwis capitalize on a low-scoring South African total of 136, with Devon Conway and Tom Latham steering their team to an effortless chase. The result sets up a thrilling final T20I on March 22 in Wellington, where both teams will aim to close the series. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his team’s execution, highlighting the bowlers’ focus on targeting the stumps. “The plan was simple—just bowl at the stumps,” Santner said. He commended the early contributions of Latham and Conway, who laid the foundation for a dominant performance. The Kiwis’ bowlers, including Lockie Ferguson, maintained pressure throughout, with Ferguson earning Player of the Match honors for his disciplined four-over spell of 1 for 9. South Africa’s skipper Keshav Maharaj acknowledged his team’s struggles, particularly in the Powerplay overs. “We lost too many wickets early, and it was hard to recover,” he admitted. Despite a resilient lower-order effort, including a 26-run stand from Nqobani Mokoena, the Proteas’ batting lacked consistency. Maharaj emphasized the need for adaptation to the conditions, noting the young squad’s potential to bounce back. The Kiwis’ dominance was evident from the outset. South Africa’s bowlers faced challenges on a pitch offering pace and spin, with all six pacemen claiming wickets. However, the Proteas’ innings lacked fluency, and their inability to build partnerships left them on the back foot. In contrast, New Zealand’s openers handled the early phase comfortably, allowing Conway and Latham to take control.#new_zealand #south_africa #devon_conway #mitchell_santner #tom_latham
Live Blog: New Zealand vs South Africa – 4th T20I (Otago Cricket Ground) Updated: 2:15 PM Latest Score: South Africa 120/4 in 15.3 overs (Keshav Maharaj 52, David Wiese 28) Key Developments: South Africa’s Bowling Strategy: The Proteas have opted for a mix of pace and spin, with pace bowler Ovum Baratman and leg-spinner Prennel Subrayan dominating early. Baratman’s first over contained three maidens, while Subrayan’s off-spin has disrupted New Zealand’s rhythm. New Zealand’s Response: The Black Caps’ pace attack, led by Mitchell Santner and Kyle Jamieson, has been aggressive, targeting the South African middle order. Santner’s first over yielded 12 runs, but the hosts are struggling to contain the lower order. Injury Update: Tom Latham’s injury has shifted the captaincy to Jimmy Neesham, who is now leading from the dugout. Katen Clark’s debut as a batter has been tentative, with a single and a dot ball in his first over. South Africa’s Setback: The Proteas lost opener David Wiese (28) to Ben Sears’ sharp inswinger in the 13th over, but Maharaj’s resilience has kept the innings afloat. His 52 includes 7 boundaries and a six off Santner. Player Spotlight: Keshav Maharaj: The South African captain is in commanding form, playing deep drives and rotating the strike. His 52* has steadied the innings after a shaky start. Mitchell Santner: The New Zealand seamer has been clinical, with 3 wickets (Wiese, Rilee Rossouw, and David Miller) in 5 overs. His yorkers and slower balls have been the key to the breakthroughs. Prennel Subrayan: The leg-spinner has taken 2 wickets (Wiese, Rilee Rossouw) and is bowling with precision, exploiting the turn and bounce. Series Implications: South Africa needs 120 runs to avoid a series whitewash, but New Zealand’s pace attack is threatening.#new_zealand #south_africa #mitchell_santner #keshav_maharaj #prennel_subrayan
New Zealand wins the toss and bowls in the 3rd T20 against South Africa AUCKLAND, New Zealand — New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner secured the toss and opted to field in the third Twenty20 international against South Africa at Eden Park on Friday. The decision came as the five-match series remained deadlocked at 1-1 following South Africa’s seven-wicket victory in the first match and New Zealand’s 68-run win in the second. Both teams made adjustments to their lineups ahead of the match. South Africa replaced right-arm pace bowler Ottneil Baartman with Lutho Sipamla, while New Zealand recalled Bevon Jacobs to replace Josh Clarkson in their squad. The squads for the third game included the following players: New Zealand: Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly, Bevon Jacobs, Mitchell Santner (captain), James Neesham, Cole McConchie, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Sears, Lockie Ferguson. South Africa: Wiaan Mulder, Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen, Rubin Hermann, Jason Smith, Dian Forrester, George Linde, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj (captain), Nqobani Mokoena, Lutho Sipamla. The match marked the third encounter in the series, with both teams aiming to gain momentum in the high-stakes T20 format. The outcome of the game would determine the series’ trajectory as the teams prepare for the remaining matches.#new_zealand #south_africa #mitchell_santner #eden_park #lutho_sipamla
New Zealand Dominates South Africa in T20 Clash, Series Tied at 1-1 New Zealand delivered a commanding performance against South Africa in the second T20 international of the series, crushing the hosts by 68 runs in Hamilton. The victory leveled the five-match series at 1-1, with both teams now vying for the remaining three games. In a display of clinical bowling, the Kiwi attack dismantled the South African batting lineup, restricting them to a meager 107 runs in 15.3 overs. New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Locky Ferguson, executed a near-perfect strategy, keeping the opposition under constant pressure. Ferguson, in particular, was instrumental, conceding just 16 runs in 3.3 overs while claiming three wickets. His maiden T20 over, a maiden, further underscored his dominance. The hosts struggled from the outset, losing their top three batters for 31 runs. South Africa’s opener, Rubin Herman, managed 19 runs before falling, while George Linde became the highest scorer for his team with 33 off 12 balls. However, the collapse continued, with the rest of the order failing to add meaningful runs. By the 15th over, South Africa had already lost all their wickets, leaving them with no hope of chasing the 176-run target set by New Zealand. New Zealand’s batting innings was equally impressive. Devon Conway anchored the innings with a composed 60, while captain Mitchell Santner contributed 20 and Nick Calilie smashed 21 off 12 balls. Josh Clarkson, however, stole the spotlight with a blistering 26 off 9 balls in the final over, showcasing his explosive talent. The Kiwi middle order’s resilience and the bowlers’ precision ensured a comprehensive victory. The result highlights New Zealand’s ability to dominate in the shortest format, while South Africa’s struggles continue to raise concerns about their batting depth.#new_zealand #south_africa #devon_conway #mitchell_santner #locky_ferguson
The provided text contains a mix of content, primarily focusing on a cricket match report between New Zealand and South Africa, along with unrelated news snippets. Here's a structured breakdown: --- Cricket Match Summary (New Zealand vs. South Africa) Result: New Zealand won the match (exact score not specified). Key Performances: New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain) and Tom Latham were central to the victory. Mitchell Santner (captain) and James Neesham contributed significantly in the bowling department. South Africa: Quinton de Kock (captain) and David Miller were key batsmen. Lungi Ngamani and Keshav Maharaj were standout bowlers. Playing XI: New Zealand: Devon Conway (wk), Tom Latham, Tim Robinson, Nick Kyle, Bevon Jacobs, James Neesham, Cole McRae, Mitchell Santner (captain), Kyle Jamieson, Jacaré Faulkner, Ben Sears. South Africa: Conner Estarhuijzen (wk), Jordan Herman, Tony de Jersey, Rubin Herman, Jason Smith, Dian Forster, George Linde, Gerald Kootz, Keshav Maharaj (captain), Nakoebani Mokoena, Otniel Bartman. --- Other News Snippets Wedding Celebration: Kuldip-Vanshika's wedding party in Lucknow on 17 March. Iranian Women's Football Team: 3 players returning to Iran after changing refugee status. Pakistan Cricket: Selector comments on Bumrah's pace and Usmann Tariq's impact. Weather Updates: Snowfall in Manali and Narkanda. Thunderstorms and hail in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Temperature drops in Haryana and Delhi. Political/Current Affairs: Rajasthan Assembly Election Dates. Pakistan Player Penalty. BJP Rajya Sabha Win Analysis. Iran vs. US-Israel War updates. --- Key Takeaways The cricket match report highlights New Zealand's dominance, with key players like Williamson and Santner.#david_miller #quinton_de_kock #kane_williamson #mitchell_santner #tom_latham
Mitchell Santner Reflects on T20 World Cup 2026 Memories After Loss to South Africa New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner opened up about the team’s recent defeat to South Africa in the first T20 match of their five-game series, drawing parallels to their earlier World Cup loss to India. The Kiwi captain expressed frustration over the team’s performance, highlighting the challenges posed by the pitch and the need for adjustments in their approach. The match, played on a pitch that favored spinners, saw New Zealand collapse to 91 all out in their batting innings. South Africa capitalized on the conditions, securing a 7-wicket victory with ease. Santner acknowledged the difficulty of facing such a pitch, noting that losing early wickets made it nearly impossible to recover. He emphasized that if New Zealand had managed to post a higher score, they could have put more pressure on the opposition. Santner also reflected on the team’s recent World Cup experience, recalling their 96-run loss to India in the 2026 T20 World Cup final. He admitted that the conditions in India had been different, with fewer instances of the kind of spin that dominated the South Africa match. “It’s rare to see such spin in New Zealand, but the way the ball moved here was incredible,” he said. The series against South Africa comes after the World Cup, and Santner stressed the importance of learning from each game. He acknowledged South Africa’s strength as a team and warned that they would pose a significant challenge in upcoming matches. “They’ve shown they can dominate under pressure, and we need to be ready for that,” he added. New Zealand’s next match is set to be in Hamilton, where the pitch is expected to be slightly different.#t20_world_cup_2026 #new_zealand #south_africa #mitchell_santner #hamilton
India and New Zealand Clash in T20 World Cup Final at Narendra Modi Stadium The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 reached its climax as India faced New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter. India, the defending champions, aimed to retain their title, while New Zealand sought their first men’s World Cup victory. The match, broadcast live with commentary on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, drew a massive crowd, with fans clad in blue filling the stadium. India’s opening pair, Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, faced New Zealand’s Matt Henry from the outset. The first over saw a mix of defensive shots and aggressive boundaries, with Samson hitting a six off Henry’s slower delivery. By the end of the first over, India had reached 7-0, setting a positive tone. However, the Kiwi bowlers quickly adapted, restricting the flow of runs in the following overs. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner emphasized the challenge ahead, stating, “India have a lot of power, we’ll try to restrict them. The boys are good. This is what we play the game for.” Santner’s team aimed to exploit the flat pitch, anticipating a high-scoring contest. Meanwhile, India’s Suryakumar Yadav expressed confidence in his team’s ability to defend their title, noting, “We have batted first on similar wickets in the tournament so we are happy to bat first. It feels good to be defending champions, but it’s history now.” The pre-match atmosphere was electric, with the stadium transforming into a vibrant celebration. The closing ceremony featured a dance party, including performances by singer Falguni Pathak and Ricky Martin, who entertained the crowd with hits like Livin’ la Vida Loca and La Copa de la Via.#india #new_zealand #suryakumar_yadav #narendra_modi_stadium #mitchell_santner
T20 World Cup final: New Zealand aim to 'silence' Ahmedabad crowd but wary of Jasprit Bumrah New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner expressed confidence in his team’s ability to challenge India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final, despite acknowledging the daunting task ahead. The Black Caps will face the defending champions at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where over 100,000 fans are expected to gather for the high-stakes clash. Santner emphasized the importance of silencing the home crowd, a goal he linked to breaking India’s momentum and securing their first white-ball World Cup title. New Zealand reached the final in 2021 but fell to Australia, and Santner admitted the team is not the favorite in this year’s edition. “It’s going to be obviously a challenge where everyone knows we’re probably not the favorites,” he said. However, he hinted at a determination to “break a few hearts” to lift the trophy. Santner also referenced India’s recent victory over England in the semi-final, where Jasprit Bumrah played a pivotal role, and acknowledged the need to prepare specifically for the Indian fast bowler. Bumrah’s performance in the tournament has been standout, particularly during the semi-final against England, where his bowling was described as “hard to hit.” Santner noted that Bumrah’s ability to change the game’s momentum makes him a key threat, but he stressed that New Zealand cannot focus solely on the left-arm pacer. “Not just him, everyone has stepped up (for India) at different times,” Santner said, highlighting the depth of India’s squad. The New Zealand skipper emphasized the importance of adapting to the challenges posed by the Indian team, which has shown resilience and consistency throughout the tournament.#india #new_zealand #jasprit_bumrah #narendra_modi_stadium #mitchell_santner
सारांश और महत्वपूर्ण जानकारी टी-20 वर्ल्ड कप फाइनल और खिलाड़ियों के बयान मित्चेल सैंटनर (न्यूजीलैंड कप्तान) ने कहा कि ट्रॉफी जीतने के लिए अरबों भारतीय प्रशंसकों का दिल तोड़ना पड़े तो भी उन्हें ऐतराज नहीं होगा। सूर्यकुमार यादव (भारत कप्तान) ने जवाब दिया: "हर कोई वही बात कर रहा है, कुछ नया लेकर आइए।" टी-20 वर्ल्ड कप के रिकॉर्ड और टीम के इतिहास भारत इतिहास में 15वीं बार ICC फाइनल खेलेगा। भारत ऑस्ट्रेलिया के बाद दूसरी सबसे सफल टीम है। कपिल देव से रोहित शर्मा तक 7 ट्रॉफी जीतने की कहानी है। खेल के ज्ञान टेस्ट: SUPER OVER दैनिक भास्कर के टी-20 वर्ल्ड कप 2026 के दौरान एक खेल शुरू किया गया है। 6 सवाल प्रतिदिन पूछे जाएंगे, जितनी जल्दी सही जवाब देंगे, उतने रन बनेंगे। लीडरबोर्ड में ऊपर आएंगे, टॉप स्कोरर बनिए। क्लिक करें खेलें: SUPER OVER (लिंक उपलब्ध कराएं) मौसम अपडेट हिमाचल प्रदेश: हीट-वेव का अलर्ट, बर्फ के टुकड़े से धराली आपदा। राजस्थान, झारखंड, उत्तर प्रदेश: गर्मी बढ़ी, तापमान सामान्य से 7-8 डिग्री अधिक। महाराष्ट्र, हरियाणा, पंजाब: तापमान 35 डिग्री सेल्सियस पार। उत्तराखंड: बारिश-बर्फबारी के आसार। मार्च का पहला हफ्ता: 8 साल में सबसे गर्म रहा। अन्य खबरें जैन-संत की चादर के दर्शन: महामारी से बचाने के लिए। मध्य प्रदेश: जहरीले कफ सिरप केस में 2 डॉक्टर गिरफ्तार। नेपाल चुनाव 2026: विश्लेषण उपलब्ध। समूह साइट लिंक्स दैनिक भासकर के समूह साइट्स (लिंक उपलब्ध कराएं) --- कैसे भाग ले सकते हैं? SUPER OVER खेलें: क्लिक करें मौसम अपडेट देखें: दैनिक भास्कर मौसम खबर अन्य खबरें देखें: दैनिक भास्कर वेबसाइट यदि आप किसी विशेष खबर या लिंक की आवश्यकता है, तो बताएं!#suryakumar_yadav #mitchell_santner #icc_world_t20 #super_over_game #daily_bhaskar
World Cup Final: India and New Zealand Captains Exchange Tensions Ahead of Clash The tension between India and New Zealand captains Surya Kumar and Mitchell Santner has intensified ahead of the T20 World Cup final. Santner hinted that the pressure will be on India, as they aim to defend their home title, while Surya emphasized the team’s readiness for the big occasion. Santner’s War Cry: Pressure on India Santner, reflecting on New Zealand’s semi-final victory over South Africa, stated, “We’re not here to be favorites. If we play as a team and execute small things right, we have a chance to win.” He acknowledged the challenge of facing India at home, noting, “The pressure will be on them, as they want to defend their title in front of their home crowd.” Surya’s Confidence: A Home Advantage Surya, meanwhile, praised the home environment, calling it “a special moment” for the team. “The dressing room is positive, and we’re all excited to face this big final,” he said. The captain also hinted at strategic adjustments, including potential changes to the playing XI, though he avoided specifics. Pitch and Strategy: Key Factors The final’s outcome may hinge on the pitch conditions, with reports suggesting a hybrid surface that could favor both batting and bowling. Analysts have debated whether India’s home advantage will translate into dominance, especially with the inclusion of spinners like Kuldeep Yadav over Varun Chakravarthy. New Zealand’s Ambitions New Zealand, aiming to win their first T20 World Cup, will rely on their explosive batting lineup and disciplined bowling. Santner’s focus remains on preparation, stating, “We’ll approach the game like any other match, staying focused on our own performance.” Match Details The final is set for Saturday at 7 PM IST, with both teams vying for the title.#india #new_zealand #mitchell_santner #t20_world_cup_final #surya_kumar
Mitchell Santner: 'Wouldn't Mind Breaking a Few Hearts to Lift the Trophy' New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner has expressed his determination to secure victory in the T20 World Cup 2026 final against defending champions India, acknowledging the challenge but emphasizing his team’s resolve to deliver a strong performance. Speaking ahead of the high-stakes clash in Ahmedabad, Santner admitted the pressure of the occasion but stressed that the team’s approach remains focused on executing their game plan. Santner, reflecting on New Zealand’s history of reaching the men’s white-ball finals without claiming a title, humorously remarked, “I wouldn’t mind breaking a few hearts to lift the trophy for once.” He acknowledged the expectations of fans and the significance of the final, noting that the team has consistently performed well in such scenarios. “We are pretty consistent in our thoughts,” he said. “We try not to get overawed by the situation or opponents. We just go out there and do our thing as a unit.” The match, set against a team known for its aggressive batting and tactical depth, presents a unique challenge. Santner highlighted India’s ability to maintain pressure throughout the innings, stating, “They’re going to put us under pressure for the first over, to the seventh over, to the 12th over, all the way through.” He emphasized the importance of restricting runs while managing the risk of losing wickets, particularly in the middle overs. “It’s how you close overs out versus turning those into 15-20 runs,” he explained. The pitch in Ahmedabad, expected to offer minimal turn and good bounce, has been prepared to withstand high temperatures, with a hessian cover used to prevent it from drying out.#t20_world_cup_2026 #india #new_zealand #ahmedabad #mitchell_santner
New Zealand Captain Backs Varun Chakravarthy Ahead of T20 World Cup Final New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner emphasized the threat posed by India’s Varun Chakravarthy ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final against India, despite the spinner’s inconsistent performance in the tournament so far. The match, set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, will see over 100,000 fans in attendance. Santner acknowledged Chakravarthy’s potential to shift the momentum of the game with a single performance, even as the Indian bowler has struggled to replicate his past form. Santner highlighted the importance of pitch conditions in determining how bowlers perform, noting that flat surfaces can challenge even the most skilled spinners. He remarked that while such conditions might allow teams to score freely, Chakravarthy’s ability to adapt could still make a significant difference. “Everyone can go for 60 on such a day,” Santner said, adding that the spinner remains a key threat. “You should know that you are only one game away from changing the tide.” The New Zealand captain also addressed the need for his team to manage the innings effectively, particularly if the match turns into a high-scoring contest. Santner suggested that restricting India to a target of around 220 runs, rather than 250, could provide a competitive edge. He noted that the pitch, still under cover, is likely to be flat and high-scoring, making it crucial for New Zealand to limit India’s scoring opportunities. Santner’s comments came ahead of the final, where New Zealand faces the challenge of countering Chakravarthy’s spin and navigating the unpredictable nature of the pitch. The captain’s focus on preparation and adaptability underscores the high stakes of the match, with both teams aiming to secure a historic victory.#india #new_zealand #icc_men_s_t20_world_cup #mitchell_santner #varun_chakravarthy
New Zealand Aiming to End Title Drought in T20 World Cup Final New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner expressed confidence as his team prepares to face India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, hoping to end a 12-year wait for a white-ball world title. The Black Caps, who have reached four previous finals in the last 11 years but never lifted the trophy, are determined to break free from the “good guys who finish second” label. Santner emphasized the team’s consistency in high-pressure tournaments, noting their ability to stay focused and execute their game plan regardless of the opposition. The final will take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the world’s largest cricket ground, with over 90,000 fans expected to attend. India, the host nation, are chasing history by becoming the first team to defend a T20 World Cup title and the first to win three championships. New Zealand, meanwhile, aim to overcome the challenge of India’s formidable batting lineup and the pace of Jasprit Bumrah, who has been a key performer for the hosts. Both teams entered the final on the back of strong performances in the semi-finals. New Zealand, who had earlier lost to South Africa and England in the tournament, dominated the final four by defeating South Africa with a nine-wicket victory. Finn Allen’s record-breaking 33-ball century was instrumental in securing the win. India, meanwhile, maintained their perfect group stage record before overcoming England in a high-scoring semi-final, scoring 253/7 and falling just seven runs short of chasing the target. Santner acknowledged the pressure on India to win the tournament at home, while also highlighting the importance of momentum in T20 cricket. “Momentum’s a massive part. We are taking a lot of confidence from the last game,” he said.#icc_men_s_t20_world_cup_2026 #india #new_zealand #narendra_modi_stadium #mitchell_santner
'दिल तोड़ने में मुझे कोई आपत्ति नहीं', दिल पर लग सकती है सैंटनर की बात, बुमराह को बताया गेम चेंजर आईसीसी टी20 वर्ल्ड कप 2026 के फाइनल मुकाबले के बारे में चर्चा करते हुए न्यूजीलैंड के कप्तान मिचेल सैंटनर ने प्रेस कॉन्फ्रेंस में एक विशेष बयान दिया। उन्होंने कहा कि ट्रॉफी जीतने के लिए कुछ लोगों का दिल तोड़ने में उन्हें कोई आपत्ति नहीं है। इस बयान के साथ ही उन्होंने भारतीय टीम के गेंदबाज वरुण चक्रवर्ती के प्रदर्शन पर अपना विचार साझा किया। सैंटनर ने कहा कि चक्रवर्ती एक अच्छे गेंदबाज हैं और उनके फॉर्म में वापसी करने के लिए एक मैच की जरूरत है। फाइनल मुकाबले के बारे में बात करते हुए सैंटनर ने घरेलू मैदान पर भारत के खिलाड़ियों के दबाव के बारे में भी बताया। उन्होंने कहा कि भारत पर अपने घरेलू जमीन पर वर्ल्ड कप जीतने का काफी दबाव है। इसके अलावा उन्होंने सपाट पिच की उम्मीद जताई और कहा कि मैच काफी सपाट और उच्च स्कोरिंग वाला होगा। सैंटनर ने भारत के पक्ष में माहौल के बारे में भी बात की। उन्होंने कहा कि बल्लेबाजी के लिहाज से भारत के खिलाड़ियों के प्रदर्शन के बारे में उन्हें अच्छा अहसास है। इसके अलावा उन्होंने भारतीय टीम के छोटी-छोटी कमियों को दूर करने के प्रयास के बारे में भी बताया। सैंटनर के बयान में एक बात जो खास रूप से ध्यान आती है वह उनके विचार में भारतीय खिलाड़ियों के दबाव के बारे में है। उन्होंने कहा कि घरेलू मैदान पर अपने चाहने वालों के सामने भारतीय खिलाड़ी दबाव में होंगे। इस बयान के साथ ही उन्होंने भारत के खिलाड़ियों के भविष्य के बारे में भी अपना विचार साझा किया।#india #new_zealand #mitchell_santner #vishal_chakravarthy #icc_t20_world_cup_2026
New Zealand Captain Mitchell Santner Warns of 'Heartbreak' in T20 World Cup Final Clash with India New Zealand cricket captain Mitchell Santner has hinted that his team is prepared to face "heartbreak" in the T20 World Cup final against India, emphasizing their determination to secure victory despite the odds. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the high-stakes encounter, Santner stated, "We know we might not be the favorites, but we’ll give it our all. If it takes breaking hearts to win, we’re ready for that." Santner acknowledged the immense pressure on India, who are aiming to clinch their first T20 World Cup title at home. "The pressure will be on India, as they want to win the tournament on home soil. But we’re focused on our game and the small details that can decide a match in T20 cricket," he said. The New Zealand squad, which stunned South Africa in the semi-finals, remains confident in their ability to challenge India. Santner highlighted the importance of maintaining composure under pressure, noting, "We’ve seen how crucial the final over can be. Our team is mentally prepared to push through any challenges." India’s Squad: Captain: Suryakumar Yadav Vice-Captain: Akshar Patel Key Players: Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, and Kuldeep Yadav. New Zealand’s Squad: Captain: Mitchell Santner Vice-Captain: Jimmy Neesham Key Players: Lockie Ferguson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Tim Southee. Santner also praised India’s batting lineup, stating, "Their batters are in excellent form, but we’ve seen how crucial it is to defend a high score. We’ll be ready to face any challenge.#india #t20_world_cup #suryakumar_yadav #narendra_modi_stadium #mitchell_santner
Matt Henry Doubtful for T20 World Cup Semi-Final vs South Africa New Zealand’s cricket team faces uncertainty ahead of their T20 World Cup semi-final against South Africa, with their top fast bowler, Matt Henry, possibly missing the match. Captain Mitchell Santner hinted at the team’s pre-match press conference that Henry, who has been a key performer in the tournament, might not be available for the game. Santner revealed that Henry had returned to New Zealand to attend the birth of his child and was set to rejoin the squad in India on Tuesday, March 3. Henry’s absence could significantly impact New Zealand’s bowling attack, as he has been instrumental in the team’s success so far. In the Super 8s stage, he delivered a standout performance against Sri Lanka, taking two wickets for just three runs in a crucial match. His efficiency was evident as he bowled only two overs, delivering 10 dot balls and dismantling the Lankan top order. His form continued in the subsequent game against England, where he conceded 19 runs in 2.3 overs, picking up one wicket. Santner provided further insight into Henry’s potential availability for the semi-final, stating that the bowler’s readiness would depend on how his body responded to the long flight from New Zealand. “Matt is currently in the air, he’s landing tonight, so I guess we’ll see how he pulls up,” Santner said. “It’s obviously quite far away, New Zealand from here. But he’ll obviously have a little run around in the morning, see if he’s ready to go. So yeah, hopefully he’s good to go.” The semi-final against South Africa, scheduled for March 4 at Eden Gardens, marks the first time the two teams have faced each other in the tournament.#south_africa #t20_world_cup #mitchell_santner #eden_gardens #matt_henry
Matt Henry doubtful for semi-final vs South Africa, hints Mitchell Santner New Zealand’s cricket team faces uncertainty ahead of their T20 World Cup semi-final against South Africa, with star fast bowler Matt Henry potentially missing the match. Captain Mitchell Santner provided updates during a pre-match press conference, revealing that Henry had returned to New Zealand for the birth of his child and was set to rejoin the squad in India on Tuesday, March 3. Santner emphasized that Henry’s availability for the semi-final would depend on his physical condition following the long flight from New Zealand. Henry has been a standout performer in the tournament, delivering crucial contributions in New Zealand’s Super 8s game against Sri Lanka. In that match, he took two wickets for just three runs in two overs, showcasing his precision with 10 dot balls. His impact was further highlighted in the subsequent game against England, where he bowled 2.3 overs for 19 runs. Despite his recent form, Henry’s absence looms large for the semi-final, as he is considered one of New Zealand’s most reliable fast bowlers. Santner described Henry’s return to the team as a process that would involve assessing his readiness after the flight. “Matt is currently in the air, he’s landing tonight, so I guess we’ll see how he pulls up,” Santner said. “It’s obviously quite far away, New Zealand from here. But he’ll obviously have a little run around in the morning, see if he’s ready to go. So yeah, hopefully he’s good to go.” The semi-final against South Africa will take place at Eden Gardens on March 4, with the match starting at 7 pm IST. New Zealand and South Africa have met once in the tournament, with the Proteas emerging victorious in Ahmedabad.#south_africa #mitchell_santner #eden_gardens #matt_henry #marco_jansen
South Africa’s cricket team suffered a crushing defeat in the semi-final against New Zealand, losing by nine wickets in a match that exposed their vulnerabilities. New Zealand’s Finn Allen delivered a historic performance, smashing a century in just 33 balls—the fastest in T20 World Cup history. His innings, described as “the innings of his life,” dismantled South Africa’s feared fast bowling attack and secured a dominant victory. Allen’s record-breaking century surpassed the previous fastest hundred in international T20 cricket, cementing his status as a standout performer. South Africa’s captain, Aidan Markram, acknowledged the team’s struggles, citing erratic conditions as a factor. “We’ll reflect as a group,” he said, expressing disappointment with the result. The team had previously dominated the tournament, but their inability to adapt to New Zealand’s spin-heavy approach and Allen’s explosive batting proved costly. Markram praised his players’ resilience but admitted the team failed to capitalize on early opportunities. New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner praised South Africa’s challenge, noting their ability to put pressure on the opposition. “We knew how good they are, so a performance like that in a crunch game is pleasing,” he said. Santner highlighted the importance of maintaining pressure throughout the innings, a strategy that paid off as New Zealand’s spinners disrupted South Africa’s rhythm. The match’s opening partnership between Allen and Tim Seifert set the tone, with Allen’s aggressive strokeplay dismantling the South African defense. Allen’s innings was a masterclass in T20 cricket, combining power and precision. He smashed boundaries at an alarming rate, including a breathtaking 33-ball century that left South Africa reeling.#new_zealand #south_africa #mitchell_santner #finn_allen #aidan_markram
