Team India is back in the T20 World Cup semifinals for the sixth occasion, clinching their spot with a composed five-wicket defeat of West Indies in Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on Sunday. This victory in the 2026 tournament lines them up against England on March 5, reigniting a fierce rivalry.
As anticipation builds, a look back at India’s knockout performances reveals a rollercoaster of brilliance and setbacks that have defined their T20 legacy.
The fairy tale started in 2007 under Dhoni’s captaincy. Against Australia, Yuvraj’s 70 off 30 and Dhoni’s quickfire 36 propelled India to 188/5. Pathan and Sharma’s bowling restricted Australia to 173/7, launching India’s championship campaign.
2014 saw Kohli shine brightest in a semi-final chase against South Africa. His 72* off 44 balls ensured a comfortable win chasing 173, with the team losing just four wickets.
Heartbreak struck in 2016 on home soil versus West Indies. A towering 192/2, thanks to Kohli’s 89 and Rohit’s 43, wasn’t enough as Simmons and Charles orchestrated a stunning chase.
2022 in Australia was even more crushing. Pandya’s fiery 63 and Kohli’s half-century fetched 168/6, but England’s openers demolished the target in 15.5 overs without a loss.
Vengeance was sweet in 2024. Batting first for 171/7 with Rohit (57) and SKY (47) starring, India’s spinners Kuldeep and Axar then dismantled England for 103, each claiming a hat-trick of wickets.
With a 3-2 record in T20 WC knockouts, India’s sixth semi-final appearance underscores their dominance and resilience. The upcoming England showdown promises fireworks, as India aims to build on past lessons for glory.