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 on Sunday.

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 remarkable victory over the West Indies in their final Super Eights match when defeat would have seen them eliminated.

"We never panicked. Kept our heads above the water. Teams that do that win the tournament and I am very happy we did it," said India bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

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."

In winning so convincingly, India exorcised the ghosts of the past at the same venue where they were shocked by Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup final. (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong