New Delhi: India entered the 2026 T20 World Cup final after defeating England by seven runs in a thrilling semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. As India celebrated their victory, England all-rounder Will Jacks won praise for his outstanding performances with bat and ball.
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar was particularly impressed with Jacks’ efforts. The England star took two important wickets, dismissing Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma and scored a quick 35 runs in 20 balls.
Samson’s batting was superb and he looked set for a century before Jacks removed him for 89.
Praising the all-rounder in the video, Akhtar said: “But here comes Will Jacks again! He came to bowl again and took two wickets. He is a great player. He can score runs too. Goron ka Hardik Pandya hai (He is England’s Hardik Pandya). He always contributes.”
129210033
advertise
India had earlier posted a massive score of 253/7 after being asked to bat first. Samson led the way with 89 off 42 balls while other batsmen also made useful contributions.
England’s chase continued till the end, largely due to a stunning knock from Jacob Bethell, who blasted 105 off just 48 balls.
However, fierce bowling by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya in the final over, along with brilliant fielding by Axar Patel, helped India seal a narrow victory.
With this victory, the Indian team secured a spot in the final where they will face the New Zealand national cricket team at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
India now aims to become the first team to successfully defend the T20 World Cup title.
