Meet the unsung heroes behind Team India’s T20 World Cup victory

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India national cricket team lifted the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after defeating New Zealand national cricket team in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The victory marked India’s third title in the tournament’s history. While the players celebrated on the field, the success was also the result of efforts from several individuals working behind the scenes.

Gautam Gambhir’s Leadership from the Dugout

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Head coach Gautam Gambhir played a key role in shaping the team’s approach throughout the tournament. His strategic thinking and strong backing of players helped the squad stay confident in pressure situations. Gambhir’s leadership ensured the team remained focused on its long-term plan.

Sitanshu Kotak’s Influence on the Batting Unit

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Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak worked closely with the batters to sharpen their techniques and improve their approach in different match situations. Through detailed practice sessions and tactical discussions, he helped the lineup become more aggressive and adaptable. This preparation was evident in India’s powerful batting displays.

Ryan ten Doeschate’s Tactical Support

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Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate contributed significantly to match planning and player communication. He helped bridge the gap between strategy and execution by guiding players on specific roles. His experience and calm presence added valuable support to the coaching setup.

Bowling and Fielding Departments Step Up

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Bowling coach Morne Morkel ensured that India’s bowlers were prepared for different conditions and match situations. At the same time, fielding coach T Dilip focused on improving the team’s agility and fielding standards. Their efforts resulted in sharp bowling performances and crucial fielding moments.

Fitness and Recovery Behind the Scenes

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Strength and conditioning coach Adrian Le Roux played a major role in keeping players physically ready during the demanding tournament. His training routines and recovery programs helped the squad maintain peak fitness. This allowed players to perform consistently throughout the competition.

Throwdown Specialist Raghu’s Contribution

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Throwdown specialist Raghu has long been an important part of India’s support staff. During practice sessions, he provides high-speed throwdowns that help batters prepare for fast bowling. His work may stay away from the spotlight, but it has been vital in sharpening the skills of India’s top players.