Harbhajan Singh Backs Team India Ahead of T20 World Cup Final

March 8, 2026

Ahmedabad: Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh extended his best wishes to the India national cricket team ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final against the New Zealand national cricket team at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, urging the players to play like champions and give their best in the title clash.

Speaking to IANS before the summit clash, Harbhajan expressed confidence in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion and lift the trophy if they play to their full potential.

‘Play Like Champions,’ Says Harbhajan

“On my behalf, many best wishes to Team India. Today is the final, so play like champions. And if India plays to its true potential, no one can stop them from becoming champions. I want to wish everyone on the team to just go out there and give it their all. Chak de phatte! Go India!” Harbhajan told IANS.

Harbhajan’s Role in 2007 T20 World Cup

Harbhajan Singh was a key member of India’s ICC World Twenty20 2007-winning squad, providing crucial breakthroughs. He played a pivotal role in the semifinal against Australia national cricket team, where his spell of 1-24 in 4 overs helped restrict the opposition.

He also contributed to the bowl-out victory against Pakistan national cricket team. The off-spinner took seven wickets during the tournament.

India Hold Slight Edge Going Into Final

India head into the final against New Zealand national cricket team with a slight edge. Playing at home, carrying the tag of defending champions, and coming off recent bilateral wins against the Kiwis, India appears to have momentum on their side.

However, history provides a counterbalance—India has never beaten New Zealand in tournament encounters.

Head-to-Head Record in T20Is

India national cricket team and New Zealand national cricket team have faced each other 30 times in T20Is, out of which the Men in Blue have won 18 games, while the Black Caps have come victorious on only 11 occasions.

India Aim for Historic Third Title

India will aim to create history by becoming the only team with three T20 World Cup trophies.

While New Zealand national cricket team has never won a T20 World Cup trophy, they will look to produce another collective performance when they face India in the final, hoping to overturn the odds and clinch the title for the first time.