AHMEDABAD — India won a record third T20 World Cup title and became the first team to defend their crown with a 96-run thumping of New Zealand in a lop-sided final yesterday. 

Suryakumar Yadav’s India were also the first team to lift the trophy on home soil as over 86,000 fans celebrated at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

England and the West Indies have won two titles each.

India beat both those teams en route to the title, including a clutch victory over the West Indies in their final Super Eights match when defeat would have seen them eliminated.

“We have been playing good cricket in the last two years and we just wanted to follow the good cricketing habits that we had in the 2024 World Cup,” said captain Suryakumar, who also played a key part in India’s triumph two years ago under Rohit Sharma.

Sanju Samson’s blistering 89 off 46 balls guided the co-hosts to 255-5 and Bumrah starred as New Zealand were bowled out for 159 in 19 overs.

Part-time spinner Abhishek Sharma claimed the final wicket of Jacob Duffy, securing a dominant victory.

“I am very grateful for everyone who supported me,” said Samson, who was out of the team earlier in the tournament before reeling off three consecutive scores of 89 or better when it mattered most.

“This itself is very big for me, I want to enjoy it right now and then after a few days will figure out what more to do.”

Axar Patel struck two early blows, including the dangerous Finn Allen for nine, with his left-arm spin.