New Delhi, March 9 – Indian players Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma reflected on their team’s historic victory in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, recalling the team's resilience and unity after winning the trophy following a commanding win over New Zealand in the final on Sunday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
In a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the two players spoke candidly about the emotions surrounding India's title-winning campaign and the journey that led to the moment.
Kishan highlighted the significance of the victory, noting that the host nation had never previously won the tournament before India's triumph.
"The host nation never won the World Cup, and here we are. We played with all our hearts. We worked hard throughout the tournament, we were in a very good headspace, we supported each other, and that's what the Indian team is all about. This was the last World Cup in 2023; I was there, and we were all crying in the dressing room. But this is how things turn around. We played a very good game, and credit goes to everyone, including the support staff and everyone who was with us. And today, we are here, lifting the trophy, and we hope to do it again," Kishan said in a bcci.tv video.
Abhishek, who played a key role during the tournament, described the moment of winning the World Cup as the pinnacle of his career so far.
"It was one of the best moments of my life," Abhishek said. Kishan also praised his teammate for maintaining a positive attitude even during difficult phases in the competition. "Look at this champion. Even when you don't get runs, it doesn't matter. You need to stay positive. And he always did that, even when he wasn't scoring runs, he was always there to help each other," he said.
Reflecting on his personal struggles earlier in the tournament, Abhishek credited the team environment and support staff for helping him stay confident.
"If you had told me that we were going to win the cup and get the last wicket, then I would have been suffering through those days because it wasn't easy for me. But I think the team, the coaches, everyone, the way they treated me, the way they supported me throughout, I never felt alone for a single day. Because you never feel this in a team. When you're not scoring well, you're doing well throughout the year and then suddenly…I'm very proud of the team," an emotional and overwhelmed Abhishek said.
Kishan once again acknowledged his teammate's contribution after the victory. "But he's always there to help others, and he got the result today, so I'm proud of him," he added. Abhishek, in turn, returned the praise while reflecting on the dream of lifting a World Cup trophy for India.
"I'm proud of him! It's a dream come true because I saw the last World Cup at home, and I was really proud of the team. Winning the World Cup for your team and doing well throughout the journey…it's something to remember," he said.