Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has expressed his dream scenario for the T20 World Cup 2026 final, sharing that he would love to face Australia at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. His response came during the schedule reveal ceremony hosted by the ICC on November 25 in Mumbai, where he was asked a hypothetical question about his preferred opponent for the title clash on March 8, 2026.
According to the Indian Express, Surya instantly replied, “Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, Australia.” His choice reflects India’s long-standing competitive rivalry with Australia—one of the strongest cricketing nations and a team that has historically delivered high-voltage contests.
Harmanpreet Kaur Shares Surya’s Sentiment
Current Women’s World Cup 2025-winning captain Harmanpreet Kaur also agreed with Suryakumar, mentioning that defeating Australia always carries special significance. India beat Australia in a nail-biting semifinal during the Women’s World Cup, a moment she described as unforgettable.
“Australia is the only team whom we want to beat because that’s the game which stays with you,” she said at the same event.
India’s History and Group Placement for 2026
Interestingly, the Narendra Modi Stadium has bittersweet memories for India. In the 2023 ODI World Cup final, India suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Australia despite going unbeaten throughout the tournament—adding deeper emotion to Surya’s preferred matchup.
For the T20 World Cup 2026, defending champions India find themselves placed in Group A, alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, the USA, the Netherlands, and Namibia. With an exciting mix of familiar foes and rising cricketing nations, the stage is set for a thrilling tournament.
The anticipation for another potential India-Australia showdown—especially in a World Cup final on home soil—adds an extra layer of excitement as fans look forward to the event.