In a moment blending spirituality and sport, Gautam Gambhir, head coach of the Indian cricket team, arrived at Kolkata’s Kalighat Kali Temple on the eve of the T20 World Cup 2026 Super-8 showdown with West Indies. The high-voltage game unfolds Sunday evening at Eden Gardens, where semi-final spots hang in the balance.
Gambhir performed rituals, invoking blessings for triumph over the Caribbean powerhouse. This visit highlights the intense pressure cooker atmosphere surrounding the match, pivotal for both teams’ progression.
India’s campaign has been stellar yet shaky in Super-8, with a sole loss to South Africa. West Indies, unbeaten in groups, crushed Zimbabwe but met their match against the same foe. Victory for either side unlocks the semi-final door.
Analyzing strengths, West Indies’ batsmen are firepower personified, yet their bowling leaks runs. India plans to pounce on this, leveraging pace and spin mastery. The 2016 semi-final heartbreak, courtesy West Indies, adds personal stakes.
With Kolkata’s cricket faithful buzzing, Gambhir’s faith-fueled prep sets the tone. Expect a tactical masterclass as India chases glory, turning temple prayers into on-field dominance.