Shoaib Akhtar Predicts Tense T20 World Cup Final Between India and New Zealand

As the T20 World Cup final approaches, Shoaib Akhtar expresses confidence in India's chances while acknowledging the pressure they face after a previous loss in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, Umar Gul highlights New Zealand's strong bowling attack and their recent success against India. Both cricketers provide intriguing insights that set the stage for an exciting final. Will India overcome the odds at home, or can New Zealand secure their first World Cup title? Read on for more analysis.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 7, 2026, 17:12 IST

Shoaib Akhtar's Insights on the Final

Former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar shared his thoughts on the upcoming T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand, expressing confidence in India's chances of clinching the title. However, he pointed out that the last World Cup final held in Ahmedabad saw India suffer a defeat against Australia, which adds pressure on Team India to secure a victory at home this time. Akhtar suggested that New Zealand should aim for a target of 220 runs to challenge India, although he questioned their ability to achieve such a high score. He stated, “If the pitch in Ahmedabad supports spinners, a competitive score would be around 200 or even 175. A safe score would be above 200. Can New Zealand reach 250 or 225 against India? If they do, it will put India under significant pressure. However, India will come well-prepared. I believe New Zealand might struggle against India, but the pressure of 1.5 billion fans is also on India. They have already faced a loss in Ahmedabad to Australia in the World Cup final. I foresee India winning, but for the sake of cricket, it’s time for New Zealand to claim this World Cup,” Akhtar remarked during the show Game on Hai.

Umar Gul's Perspective on the Match

'It Will Be A Close Game' - Umar Gul

In a contrasting view, former Pakistani cricketer Umar Gul emphasized that New Zealand possesses a superior bowling lineup capable of defeating India. He noted New Zealand's recent success against India in a Test series at home and mentioned their experience on spin-friendly pitches. Gul stated, “New Zealand's bowling attack seems stronger. India might feel the pressure from the large home crowd. New Zealand recently triumphed in a series in India (Test series) and has familiarity with spin conditions. India may be wary, knowing that New Zealand has previously outperformed them. This will boost New Zealand's confidence. It promises to be an exciting final.”