IND vs NZ T20 World Cup Final: Mohammad Amir Criticises Mitchell Santner for ‘Gifting’ Trophy to India

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Former Pakistani pacer, Mohammad Amir has taken a swipe at the New Zealand national cricket team and their captain, Mitchell Santner, after their heavy defeat to India in the final of the T20 World Cup 2026. Amir criticised the team selection and the approach of the black caps in the summit clash and claimed that the Kiwis "gifted" the trophy to India after allowing the hosts to dominate the match with the bat.

The Pakistani left-arm pacer also praised the Indian team for their explosive batting performance in the final. Amir also said that India showed the world that tournaments can be won by batters as well, and that it is no longer the case that fast bowlers are the ultimate game-changers in ICC events.

"I have to give credit to India. They have busted the myth of fast bowlers winning you tournaments. Even the batters can do that. They have proven that. In the semi-final and final, on flat tracks, they got more than 250," he added.

India Vs New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 Final

Batting first in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, India produced a sensational batting display to post 255/5, the highest team total ever recorded in a T20 World Cup final. The Black Caps failed to mount a serious challenge in the chase and were eventually crushed by 96 runs, courtesy of disciplined bowling from India.

In the process, India lifted their third T20 World Cup title and became the first team to win the tournament in back-to-back editions, while also claiming their maiden title on home soil.

In the final, Jasprit Bumrah was adjudged as Player of the Match after he returned with figures of 4/15 in four overs. Sanju Samson was given the Player of the Tournament accolade for his haul of 321 runs in five matches. Samson also struck gold in the summit clash, playing a knock of 89 against the Kiwis.