Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium buzzed with energy as Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai made a heartfelt appearance at the India-South Africa Super-8 showdown in the T20 World Cup 2026. Accompanied by ICC Chairman Jay Shah, Pichai’s attendance spotlighted the event’s glamour quotient.
The highlight came pre-match when Pichai, alongside batting maestro Sunil Gavaskar, paraded the gleaming T20 World Cup trophy across the pitch. This symbolic act reflected Google’s pivotal sponsorship, symbolizing a fusion of innovation and sport that captivates millions worldwide.
Taking to the broadcast during the innings break, Pichai chatted with Ravi Shastri about his cricket roots. He fondly recalled idolizing Gavaskar, with the legend’s poster adorning his childhood room. Pichai spoke of huddling around the radio with his grandfather to follow distant West Indies games, emphasizing how cricket shaped his early years.
South Africa dominated the first innings, reaching 187/7 thanks to standout performances: Brevis’s 45, Miller’s explosive 63 off 35 balls, and Stubbs’ unbeaten 44 from 24 balls. Bumrah’s 3-wicket haul gave India a fighting chance. With victory crucial for India’s Super-8 momentum, Pichai’s nostalgic insights reminded fans why cricket transcends borders, uniting leaders from tech and tradition.