T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Don’t think that will bother them’ – Former Kiwi pacer on India’s record in Ahmedabad

In their last 30 matches in the ICC events, team India have lost only two matches: ODI World Cup 2023 final and the Super 8 encounter against South Africa in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Both losses have one thing in common: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. 

With the same venue hosting the T20 World Cup 2026 final between India and New Zealand, the talks are on about the jinx on the Indian team in this summit clash. But New Zealand’s former pacer Simon Doull has downplayed those talks.

“I don’t think Ahmedabad’s a psychological issue for India at all. They will thrive on the environment and thrive on the fact that they won’t be looking at the numbers and saying they’ve lost two games there. I don’t think that will bother them at all. I don’t think they’d even be talking about that. So, New Zealand won’t be looking to exploit any venue problems that India has at all, because I don’t think they have one,” Doull said.

On the contrary, team India have an excellent overall record at the venue, winning seven out of their 10 T20I matches here.

India massive favourites vs New Zealand – Doull

The ace commentator further stated that India will be entering this title decider as massive favourites. The two teams recently played a five-match T20I series, with India emerging victorious with a fine margin of 4-1. 

“This Indian side is a terrific side. I would think they are probably the ones under more pressure. If you ask 100 people, I think 95 percent of them would say that India will win that final. So, New Zealand aren’t facing any pressure. The fact is, if it’s played 10 times, India will probably win it seven. New Zealand will just hope that one of those three is in this final,” said Doull.

Interestingly, India and New Zealand will make history as they will become the first opponents to face each other in the finals of all the three formats.