Brief Scores: India (255 for 5 in 20 overs) beat New Zealand (159-all out in 19 overs) by 96 runs in the T20 World Cup final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
India head coach Gautam Gambhir on Sunday said he is accountable only to the players and support staff in the dressing room, brushing aside social media noise while reflecting on India’s historic T20 World Cup triumph.
With their 96-run victory over New Zealand in the summit clash, Suryakumar Yadav’s men became the first men’s international team to win successive T20 World Cup titles and the first to lift the trophy on home soil.
“My accountability is not for people on social media. My accountability is to those 30 people in that changing room,” Gambhir said during the post-match press conference.
The former Indian opener emphasised that a coach’s success is ultimately defined by the players. Notably, Gambhir became the first person in the history of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to win the title both as a player (2007) and as a coach (2026).
“A coach is as good as his team. Players made me the coach I am,” Gambhir added.
India’s title win was built on an explosive batting display and a disciplined bowling effort. Powered by a blazing 89 from Sanju Samson and attacking half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma (52) and Ishan Kishan (54), India piled up a daunting 255 for five in the final.
Gambhir said India’s fearless approach with the bat was central to their success.
“We have to let go of the fear of losing. Rather than playing conservative cricket, getting out for 120 is okay. The hallmark has been bravery and showing courage to score 250 in semis and finals,” he said.
The head coach also praised captain Suryakumar Yadav for working closely with him and leading the side with clarity.
“Surya made my job easier. He has been a leader who is a father figure. Bigger purpose is to celebrate trophies not milestone. For too many years we have celebrated milestones. I will urge you people to stop celebrating personal milestones,” Gambhir reiterated.
Suryakumar echoed the sentiment and highlighted the trust and understanding he shares with Gambhir.
“I played four years under GG’s captaincy for Kolkata Knight Riders. We have never had arguments as the common goal was how the team can win. Our friendship was set. He walked two steps and I walked two steps,” the skipper said.
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