India captain Suryakumar Yadav said the team’s T20 World Cup 2026 victory was the result of a two-year journey that began right after the 2024 edition.
India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The win capped a dominant campaign and gave Suryakumar his first ICC trophy as captain.
Suryakumar admitted the moment had not fully sunk in yet after the big victory.
“I think it’ll take a little bit of time to sink in, but definitely very happy with what has happened today,” he said.
“It has been a long journey. Started post-2024 World Cup when BCCI, Jay bhai, Rohit bhai and everyone showed faith in me and gave me an opportunity to lead this wonderful side.”
The captain said the team simply continued the same habits and mindset that were built during the previous World Cup cycle.
“I think it’s a special feeling. We knew that we were playing some good cricket throughout the two years,” Suryakumar said.
“We just wanted to follow all the good habits which we followed in 2024. Tell the boys what it feels like to win a World Cup and carry that taste into bilateral series and then into this tournament.”
Suryakumar reserved special praise for players like Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakravarthy, who stepped up in key moments during the tournament.
“I think it’s really important to understand what they are capable of. I knew they had match-winners in them,” he said.
“The timing was perfect for Sanju to come in. Varun Chakravarthy, Abhishek Sharma, world number one players. No bigger stage than a final to do something special.”
He also highlighted the calm influence of senior players who helped build a strong culture inside the dressing room.
Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel were praised for their consistency and leadership across the long cycle.
Suryakumar had the highest praise for Bumrah, calling the fast bowler one of the most valuable players in world cricket.
“He is a once in a generation bowler. I can call him a national treasure right now,” Suryakumar said.
“He knows what needs to be done, how it needs to be done. He is the best in the business.”
The captain added that the support between senior and younger players helped India stay united through the long build-up to the tournament.
For Suryakumar and his team, the final in Ahmedabad was not just one great night. It was the reward for two years of preparation, belief and trust within the group.