The Eden Gardens is set to host a blockbuster T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal on March 5, pitting India against England for the sixth time in the tournament’s history. Among these, semifinals have been the battleground twice before, adding extra spice to this rivalry.
It all kicked off in 2007 with Yuvraj Singh’s legendary over—six sixes that demolished Stuart Broad and powered India to 218/4. England responded with 200/6, but India’s 18-run win became folklore, fueling their march to glory.
England hit back in 2009 at The Oval. Their 153/7 looked gettable, but India’s chase faltered at 150/5 despite Yusuf Pathan’s valiant 33*. A mere 3-run defeat stung, highlighting England’s growing prowess.
Group stage action in 2012 saw India in control. Gambhir (45), Sharma (55*), and Kohli set up 170/4. England’s batting imploded spectacularly, bowled out for 80—a 90-run rout that underscored India’s all-round strength.
2022 semifinal heartbreak for India: 168/6 wasn’t enough as Buttler and Hales, unbeaten on 80 and 86, chased it in 16 overs for a 10-wicket demolition. It was a wake-up call.
But 2024 brought redemption. India’s 171/7 was defended masterfully, with England folding for 103. The 68-run margin was sweet revenge, powered by disciplined bowling and smart batting.
India leads 3-2 in T20 World Cup meetings. Will the 2026 semifinal at Kolkata tip the scales further? History suggests anything is possible in this intense duel.