Sam Curran who plays cricket for England was seen spending time in Mumbai with his girlfriend Isabella Grace. He drove his Lamborghini through the city streets after England achieved their dramatic victory against Nepal in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 cricket match.

The sighting quickly caught fans’ attention on social media, coming right after Curran delivered one of the most pressure-filled overs of the tournament so far. Curran successfully defended 10 runs during the final over which took place at Wankhede Stadium by delivering accurate yorkers that helped England cricket team achieve a four-run victory against Nepal cricket team.

England scored 184 runs for 7 wickets after winning the toss to create a difficult target for their opponents. The innings became stable because Captain Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell both achieved two half-centuries, while Will Jacks delivered an explosive performance with his 39 runs off 18 balls, which helped England reach their competitive score.

Curran delivers under pressure before enjoying Mumbai moments

The Nepalese team maintained their composure during the important match. Dipendra Singh Airee and Rohit Paudel formed a successful batting partnership which kept their team in the match until Lokesh Bam scored runs in the last over to cut the target down to 10 runs. The Wankhede crowd sensed impending historical moments until Curran executed his plan which destroyed their hopes of a magical conclusion.

Watch the video:

Sam Curran enjoying time with his girlfriend, driving a Lamborghini in Mumbai after winning against Nepal in the T20 World Cup 2026. pic.twitter.com/vpcKPzGzuc

— Sonu (@Cricket_live247) February 9, 2026

ALSO SEE: Are Ben and Harry Manenti who are playing for Italy in T20 World Cup 2026 brothers?

England captain Brook praised Curran after the thrilling match because he showed composure which he described as "ice-cold under pressure" while his experience helped the team achieve victory.

Curran drove through Mumbai after he finished his intense match which showed him to be both relaxed and happy. The final over brought intense pressure while the players maintained their coolness during the post-game activities which demonstrated how Curran had become known as a top performer in crucial matches.

Sam Curran's evening began with important bowling victories and ended with him driving through Mumbai which displayed all the excitement and attractiveness that the T20 World Cup brings to audiences.

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 started on February 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the global event. The conditions at each venue are likely to heavily favoured batters, with flat pitch surfaces, small boundary lengths and a high chance of dew (which could be a significant factor in the evening matches). Therefore, teams that can play at an aggressive tempo for the entire 20 overs will be the teams that do the best, as opposed to those who can only sustain bursts of explosive hitting.

Success in the modern T20 world is increasingly being defined by: the number of batters available to bat down the order; clearly defined roles for each player; the ability to perform under pressure and adapt to changing situations. Individual performances alone no longer guarantee behind-the-scenes teams will dominate any given game. The teams that can successfully manage pushing/rebuilding throughout the various phases of a match, as well as accelerating seamlessly without falling apart and losing their composure will enjoy significant advantages over their opposition as the tournament progresses.

See Also: 5 coaches in T20 World Cup 2026 who played the inaugural 2007 edition ft. Morne Morkel

Here are three best batting line ups for this T20 World Cup

India

With the 2026 T20 World Cup upon them as defending champions, India features an expansive, distinctly defined batting order. The elevation of Abhishek Sharma to become the world's No.1 T20I batter has been pivotal in modifying India's strategy for the Powerplay by allowing them to commence aggressively from the start of their innings. Since his arrival on the scene, Sharma has established himself as the leading six-hitter of the format, thus providing India with confidence to score heavily at the beginning of matches and three overs without compromising any platform stability. This very strategy has enabled the team to create a consistent base at the top of the batting order for future performance.

India's ability to provide additional batting resources in the middle and lower order, with both consistency and explosiveness, creates an even larger opportunity for success. Anchoring the middle of the innings against spin, Tilak Varma is able to control the game, while Suryakumar Yadav can create chaos with innovative shots against all forms of bowling. At the conclusion of their innings, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Rinku Singh provide plenty of firepower at the end, with additional depth provided by Axar Patel, who is currently batting at No. 8. To highlight their dominance since 2023, India has exceeded 200 runs in T20s 20 times, with a run rate of 9.69 and a six hit every 10.99 balls.

Australia

Although Australia’s batting order might not seem as impressive based on its overall record in terms of runs scored; when playing in high-pressure situations they continue to be incredibly successful. Structurally based around power hitting combined with composure under pressure in high stakes game environments, Australia’s batting line-up is designed to absorb up the pressure from the bowlers before they make a decisive attack on them as a team. Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh open up the batting for Australia and have the capacity to dominate against pace bowling but also against spin from the start of the innings. Their extensive exposure to Twenty20 cricket throughout the IPL has helped develop their run scoring strategy when facing slower pitches in the subcontinent compared to when playing on those surfaces in previous visits to Asia during both ODI and T20 competitions.

The overall strength in depth of Australia’s middle order and lower order lends itself to building momentum in the innings over the course of the innings. This middle-order with Josh Inglis and Cameron Green provide strong batting stability and power through the middle over, while the finishing touches at the end of the innings are added by Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Tim David. Both Maxwell and Inglis have the ability to utilise innovative shot-making techniques which create problems for bowlers and field placements on flatter surfaces. Statistically speaking, they are second only to India in clearing sixes as Australia has been able to clear the boundary every 11.72 balls on average, and as the injuries to their bowling stocks continue to increase, it is important that their batting has success again.

England

The England men's team is the current leader in T20 batting, and they are able to maintain a high level of aggressiveness and adapt to different situations in the game. They are going into the World Cup later as a team with a dominant match win over Sri Lanka at home (5-0) and will have high expectations for this World Cup. England will have Jos Buttler and Phil Salt (ranked 2nd in T20I batting) at the top of their batting order as they look to handle early pressure and transition to aggressive batting quickly. With Buttler's experiences in India, England have the added advantage of knowing that their T20 batting style works well in this venue.

They have excellent examples of successful T20 batting in their middle order. Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell have proven to be high-impact players who can carry their team through any level of aggressiveness in T20 batting. Sam Curran can play the role of stabiliser and finisher for England. England set the T20I record of 304 against South Africa in 2022 (the largest T20I total ever by an ICC Full Member) and has the 2nd most runs in T20Is behind India since October 2023 and hit a maximum every 14.81 balls in T20Is at Indian venues.

After a rain-affected result in the series opener, Sri Lanka will once again host England for the second T20I of the three-match series at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Sunday, February 1. The Lankan side struggled in the first match, being bowled out for just 133 in 16.2 overs despite a promising start from Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka. Their bowling also failed to contain the English batsmen on a tricky wicket. Sri Lanka will be aiming for a much-improved performance to stay alive in the series.

England, meanwhile, executed their plans well in the opening encounter. Sam Curran and Adil Rashid were particularly effective with the ball, taking three wickets each and keeping the hosts under pressure. With the bat, Phil Salt capitalized on the powerplay to set the tone for the innings. The Three Lions maintained control throughout, ensuring that the rain-affected result favored them. England will look to continue their dominance and secure an unassailable lead in the series on Sunday.

See Also: Watch: Jaw-dropping rebound catch breaks internet from BAN vs ZIM U19 World Cup 2026

SL vs ENG, 2nd T20I: Live Streaming Details

SL vs ENG, 2nd T20I: Probable Playing XI

Sri Lanka (SL):

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (WK), Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga

England (ENG):

Phil Salt (WK), Jos Buttler, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (C), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to get underway on February 7, with India and Sri Lanka hosting the much-awaited 20-over spectacle. The tournament promises thrilling contests, explosive batting, and intense battles between the world’s best teams. With top players in peak form and high expectations surrounding every fixture, fans can look forward to non-stop action and unforgettable moments across iconic venues in the subcontinent.

While trophies and points matter, World Cups are often remembered for the rivalries that ignite passion and drama. These clashes go beyond numbers, shaping narratives and defining momentum throughout the tournament. Historic matchups bring added pressure, emotion, and excitement, making them must-watch encounters. In this article, we take a closer look at five of the fiercest rivalries, fueled by history and pride, that are set to headline the T20 World Cup 2026.

See Also: 5 legendary players who might play their final T20 World Cup in 2026 ft. Glenn Maxwell

Here are the 5 best rivalries to watch in T20 World Cup 2026;

Joe Root last played a T20 international for England in 2019. In the brutally fast-moving ecosystem of modern T20 cricket, that alone feels like a lifetime ago. Power-hitters dominate team sheets, strike rates are scrutinised as closely as averages, and the format increasingly rewards brawn over subtlety.

Yet with the 2026 T20 World Cup staged in India and Sri Lanka - conditions traditionally kinder to spin and game awareness than raw muscle - Root’s omission has sparked genuine debate. Was England right to move on, or are they leaving behind a player uniquely suited to the pressures and nuances of subcontinental cricket?

The case for Root

At his core, Root remains England’s finest player of spin. Few batters in world cricket manipulate fields, rotate strike, and disarm slow bowling with such calm assurance. That skill feels especially relevant for a tournament beginning on February 7 in conditions where spinners are expected to play a decisive role.

Root’s recent form only strengthens the argument. Three consecutive ODI fifties against Sri Lanka, capped by a fluent century, underlined that even at 35 he is still England’s most reliable run-scorer. His comfort on turning pitches is long established: he averages over 50 in T20s played in India, and while he has never featured in a T20 in Sri Lanka, his broader record there is exceptional across formats.

Big tournaments have rarely fazed him either. A decade ago, Root was inches away from being a World Cup hero. His blistering 83 off 44 balls against South Africa in the 2016 T20 World Cup and a half-century in the final would likely have crowned him player of the tournament - if not for Carlos Brathwaite’s unforgettable four sixes in Kolkata.

Is his T20 form still good enough?

Statistically, Root’s recent T20 record is solid rather than spectacular. Over the last three years, he has averaged 31.6 at a strike rate of 135 - numbers that hold up respectably in international and franchise cricket. In the most recent Hundred season, his output was comparable to Tom Banton, who made England’s World Cup squad.

He also impressed in franchise leagues. In the SA20 last year, Root averaged nearly 56 while striking at 140, contributing not just with the bat but also with his off-spin. In isolation, those numbers point to a player who is still very much T20-capable, particularly in conditions that reward control and adaptability.

ALSO SEE: Watch: '‘Let him do batting’'- Salman Ali Agha visibly irritated at reporter over question on Babar Azam's form

Why England ultimately said no

England’s selection philosophy has been ruthlessly consistent: maximise firepower. The current top order is built to overwhelm opponents, not outmanoeuvre them. Root’s mid-130s strike rate, while healthy, lags well behind England’s established top five, most of whom operate at 150-plus. Phil Salt, for example, strikes at an extraordinary 168 and already has four T20 centuries in just 50 matches.

There is also the broader reality of workload. Very few players in history have dominated all three formats simultaneously. Even the likes of Virat Kohli and Steve Smith have had to prioritise. Root’s resurgence has coincided with his absence from T20 internationals, allowing him to focus on Tests and ODIs. England appear reluctant to disturb that balance. Captain Harry Brook confirmed as much, stating that Root was “probably not” in contention, despite acknowledging his class and experience.

A door quietly closed

Root himself has been pragmatic. Asked about a potential return, he admitted: “That ship has sailed.” Any recall would likely have come at the expense of Banton or Ben Duckett - neither an easy call given their recent roles and future value.

There is irony in all this. T20 World Cup finals are rarely six-hitting exhibitions; nerve and clarity often matter more. England leaned on Ben Stokes’s composure in 2022, just as Root nearly delivered in 2016. An anchor still has a place when the pressure peaks.

But England have chosen continuity and power over nuance. Root will watch from home, admired but unused - a reminder that in modern T20 cricket, timing your career can matter as much as timing the ball.

England captain Harry Brook produced a masterclass innings against Sri Lanka in the third ODI on January 27 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Leading from the front, Brook scored an unbeaten 136 off just 66 balls, powering England to a massive 357/3 in their 50 overs. His aggressive approach and flawless shot selection put the Sri Lankan bowlers under relentless pressure, setting the tone for a dominant batting display. This innings demonstrated his ability to take charge in high-stakes matches and anchor a formidable total for his side.

After reaching his century, Brook celebrated in a highly entertaining and unique manner that caught the attention of fans and commentators alike. Removing both gloves, he raised them high before punching his fists together, replicating the iconic entrance gesture of WWE legend Stone Cold Steve Austin, who famously performed it with beer bottles. The crowd erupted in applause as Brook’s celebration combined both flair and humor, reflecting his confidence and charisma on the field, adding a memorable moment to an already remarkable innings.

See Also: The Hundred 2026: Schedule, Auction, Teams, Format, Venue - All you need to know

This century marked Brook’s third in ODI cricket and highlighted his rapid progression in the international arena. At a time when global cricket boasts a wealth of emerging talent, Brook’s innings stood out for its combination of power, timing, and temperament. His ability to dominate attacks and play match-defining innings has positioned him as one of the most exciting young cricketers in the world. With performances like this, Brook continues to cement his reputation as a leading figure in England’s batting lineup.

Watch the video here;

Harry Brook celebrating with what looks like a Stone Cold Steve Austin beer smash pic.twitter.com/cIEtJWynOq

— Cameron Ponsonby (@cameronponsonby) January 27, 2026

England scored 357 in their 50 overs

England’s innings in the third ODI was dominated by a sensational partnership between Harry Brook and Joe Root. Brook, in blistering form, smashed 11 fours and nine sixes on his way to an unbeaten 136, while Root anchored the innings with a composed 111 off 108 balls, including nine fours and a six. Jacob Bethell added a steady 65 off 72 deliveries, helping England post a commanding total. For Sri Lanka, only three bowlers managed to claim a single wicket each. This match served as the series decider after both sides had won one game each.

Sri Lanka had won the first ODI by 19 runs, with Kusal Mendis scoring a brilliant 93 and Dunith Wellalage delivering an economical spell of 2/41 in 10 overs. England bounced back in the second ODI, chasing down 220 with ease, guided by Joe Root’s composed 75. After the ODI series, both teams will compete in a three-match T20I series, starting January 30, with the second game on February 1 and the final match scheduled for February 3.

England skipper Harry Brook delivered a breathtaking performance in the third and deciding ODI against Sri Lanka in Colombo, producing one of the finest knocks of his young one-day career. In a high-stakes encounter with the series on the line, Brook rose to the occasion with a brutal display of power-hitting that left the hosts reeling.

Batting first, England were already in a solid position at 166/3 when Brook walked out to the middle, joining an in-form Joe Root. What followed was a masterclass in controlled aggression. The pair stitched together a commanding 191-run partnership, but it was Brook who took on the role of chief aggressor, completely dictating the tempo of the innings.

Brook’s 57-ball century powers England to a series-deciding win

Brook accelerated effortlessly, targeting both pace and spin with equal confidence. As the innings progressed, he shifted through the gears with ease, launching Sri Lanka’s bowlers into the stands and piercing the gaps with precision. His century came up in just 57 balls, underlining the ferocity of his approach. By the time the innings ended, Brook had raced to an unbeaten 136 off only 66 deliveries, smashing nine sixes and 11 fours.

ALSO SEE: The Hundred 2026: Schedule, Auction, Teams, Format, Venue - All you need to know

His onslaught powered England to a formidable total of 357/3, a score that effectively put the contest beyond Sri Lanka. It was Brook’s third ODI hundred, and it could not have come at a more crucial moment. The knock also marked his career-best score in the format.

From a statistical perspective, Brook’s numbers continue to impress. In 38 ODIs, he has now scored 1,354 runs at an average of 39.82, striking at a rapid 105.28. Playing his maiden ODI series against Sri Lanka, Brook finished as England’s leading contributor with 192 runs.

The innings was historic as well. Brook’s 57-ball hundred stands as the fourth-fastest ODI century against Sri Lanka and the joint-sixth fastest by an England batter, placing him alongside Eoin Morgan. It was a knock that showcased Brook’s growing stature as England’s go-to match-winner in white-ball cricket.

The sixth edition of The Hundred is set to usher in a new era for England and Wales’ flagship short-format competition. With the introduction of the tournament’s first-ever player auction, fresh team identities backed by IPL ownership, and a packed double-header schedule, The Hundred 2026 promises to be the most high-profile season yet.

Scheduled to run from July 21 to August 16, 2026, the competition will once again feature eight men’s and eight women’s teams, with every match broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Venues for The Hundred 2026

Matches will be played across England and Wales, with iconic cricket grounds hosting double-headers throughout the tournament:

• The Kia Oval – MI London
• Lord’s – London Spirit
• Headingley – Sunrisers Leeds
• Edgbaston – Birmingham Phoenix
• Emirates Old Trafford – Manchester Super Giants
• Trent Bridge – Trent Rockets
• Sophia Gardens – Welsh Fire
• Utilita Bowl – Southern Brave

Every matchday will feature a women’s game followed by a men’s game at the same venue, maintaining the competition’s equal-visibility format.

Teams and new identities

The Hundred 2026 will feature eight teams each in the men’s and women’s competitions, with three franchises competing under new names following ownership changes:

• MI London (formerly Oval Invincibles)
• Sunrisers Leeds (formerly Northern Superchargers)
• Manchester Super Giants (formerly Manchester Originals)

Each team will play eight group-stage matches, facing six opponents once and their designated local rivals twice.

The Hundred 2026 Full Fixtures

All times are UK & Ireland

Reserve Days

• Eliminator: Saturday, August 15
• Final: Monday, August 17

ALSO SEE: Vihaan Malhotra hits first century for India in ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2026 in IND U-19 vs ZIM U-19 Super 6

First-ever hundred-player auction

One of the biggest talking points ahead of the 2026 season is the introduction of The Hundred’s first player auction, replacing the draft system used in previous editions.

• Women’s auction: March 11, 2026
• Men’s auction: March 12, 2026

Franchises were allowed to retain or directly sign up to four players ahead of the auction window. The shift comes following increased private investment across teams, mirroring player recruitment models seen in leagues such as the IPL.

Several high-profile names remain unretained and could enter the auction pool, including Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Adil Rashid, James Anderson, Amy Jones, Issy Wong and Sarah Glenn, ensuring strong interest from fans and franchises alike.

Tournament format explained

The Hundred continues with its distinctive 100-ball format, designed for fast-paced and spectator-friendly cricket.

• Each innings consists of 100 balls
• Bowlers deliver sets of 5 or 10 balls
• Teams change ends every 10 balls
• A strategic timeout is included in each inning.

The league stage follows a round-robin system. The top team at the end of the group phase qualifies directly for the final, while the teams finishing second and third contest the eliminator.

Players signed for The Hundred 2026

Men

Birmingham Phoenix: Jacob Bethell (retained), Rehan Ahmed, Donovan Ferreira, Mitchell Owen

London Spirit: Jamie Overton (retained), Dewald Brevis, Liam Livingstone, Adam Zampa

Manchester Super Giants: Jos Buttler (retained), Noor Ahmad (retained), Heinrich Klaasen (retained), Liam Dawson

MI London: Sam Curran (retained), Will Jacks (retained), Rashid Khan (retained), Nicholas Pooran

Southern Brave: Jofra Archer (retained), Jamie Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Tristan Stubbs

Sunrisers Leeds: Harry Brook (retained), Brydon Carse (retained), Nathan Ellis, Mitchell Marsh

Trent Rockets: Tom Banton (retained), Tim David, Ben Duckett, Mitchell Santner

Welsh Fire: Chris Woakes (retained), Phil Salt, Marco Jansen, Rachin Ravindra

Women

Birmingham Phoenix: Ellyse Perry (retained), Alice Capsey, Lauren Filer, Lucy Hamilton

London Spirit: Charlie Dean (retained), Grace Harris (retained), Mahika Gaur, Marizanne Kapp

Manchester Super Giants: Sophie Ecclestone (retained), Meg Lanning, Smriti Mandhana

MI London: Melie Kerr, Hayley Matthews, Danni Wyatt-Hodge

Southern Brave: Lauren Bell (retained), Maia Bouchier (retained), Laura Wolvaardt (retained), Jemimah Rodrigues

Sunrisers Leeds: Kate Cross (retained), Phoebe Litchfield (retained), Annabel Sutherland (retained)

Trent Rockets: Nat Sciver-Brunt (retained), Ash Gardner (retained), Sophia Dunkley, Kim Garth

Welsh Fire: Freya Kemp, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham

Frequently Asked Questions 

When will The Hundred 2026 take place?

The sixth edition of The Hundred will run from July 21 to August 16, 2026, with reserve days scheduled for August 15 (Eliminator) and August 17 

What is new in The Hundred 2026 compared to previous seasons?

The 2026 season introduces the first-ever player auction, new IPL-backed team identities, higher-profile investments, and continues the women’s and men’s double-header format at every venue.

When will the player auction for The Hundred 2026 be held?

The inaugural auction will take place in London, with the women’s auction on March 11, 2026, followed by the men’s auction on March 12, 2026, replacing the draft system used in earlier editions.

How many teams are competing, and what is the tournament format?

There will be eight men’s teams and eight women’s teams. Each team plays eight group-stage matches, with the top team qualifying directly for the final, while the second and third teams compete in the eliminator. 

Where will matches of The Hundred 2026 be played, and how can fans watch them?

Matches will be played across England and Wales at iconic venues such as Lord’s, The Kia Oval, Edgbaston, and Headingley. Every match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Sri Lanka and England are set for a high-stakes showdown in the third and final ODI at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Tuesday, January 27. With the series evenly poised at 1-1, the decider promises a tense contest as both sides aim to finish the tour on a winning note. Sri Lanka began strongly by claiming a 19-run win in the opening match, using home conditions effectively and showing composure in key moments of the game.

England, however, responded in emphatic fashion in the second ODI under the leadership of Harry Brook. A masterful batting effort from Joe Root helped the visitors level the series and regain momentum. With everything to play for in the final match, both teams will be eager for their top-order batters to step up and post commanding totals, knowing that one decisive performance could tilt the series in their favour.

See Also: PCB under pressure as India-Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 boycott could trigger $38 million legal battle

SL vs ENG, 3rd ODI: Live Streaming Details

SL vs ENG, 3rd ODI: Probable Playing XI

Sri Lanka (SL):

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis(w), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka(c), Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando

England (ENG):

Rehan Ahmed, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook(c), Jos Buttler(w), Will Jacks, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place across India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, marking the 10th edition of the prestigious global tournament. India enter the competition as the defending champions, having lifted the title in the previous edition. With world-class venues and subcontinental conditions in play, the tournament is expected to deliver high-octane cricket and intense rivalries. Fans around the world are gearing up for a month-long spectacle featuring the best T20 talent from across the globe.

A total of 20 teams will compete in the 2026 edition, divided into four groups of five teams each. Co-hosts India have been slotted into Group A, where they will face Namibia, Netherlands, USA, and arch-rivals Pakistan in the group stage. Each team will play the others once, with the top two sides from every group advancing to the Super 8 stage. This phase will further intensify the competition as teams battle for places in the knockout rounds.

See Also: Watch: Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube practicing right after India's emphatic win against New Zealand in 3rd T20I

Following the Super 8s, the tournament will move into the knockout phase, beginning with the semifinals. The first semifinal is scheduled for March 4, followed by the second on March 5. The winners will then lock horns in the grand final on March 8 to decide the new world champions. As the countdown to the marquee event begins, fans eagerly await a closer look at the group-wise squads shaping up for what promises to be a thrilling World Cup.

Men's T20 World Cup 2026: Group A squads