Know Why Gautam Gambhir Dedicated T20 World Cup 2026 Win To Rahul Dravid And VVS Laxman

India's T20 World Cup 2026 triumph proved to be a moment of redemption for head coach Gautam Gambhir, who had faced heavy criticism earlier following Test series defeats against New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.

With India lifting the trophy after a commanding win over New Zealand, Gambhir reflected on the journey, the people who supported him, and the team's fearless approach that helped secure the historic title.

Gambhir Says His Accountability Is Only To The Dressing Room

Speaking after the final on Sunday, Gambhir reiterated that his focus has always been on the players and support staff rather than outside opinions.

"My accountability is not for people on social media. My accountability is to those 30 people in that change room," Gambhir said during the post-match press conference. "A coach is as good as his team. Players made me the coach I am," Gambhir added.

India sealed the title in dominant fashion, defeating New Zealand by 96 runs in the final. The victory made India the first team to win three T20 World Cups (2007, 2024, 2026). The team also became the first side to successfully defend the title and the first to achieve the feat on home soil.

Trophy Dedicated To Rahul Dravid And VVS Laxman

Despite the celebrations, Gambhir acknowledged the role of two key figures in Indian cricket who helped shape the team's success.

"I would dedicate this trophy to Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman. To Rahul bhai for putting the Indian team in a place and Laxman for creating the pipeline at the CoE," he added.

Dravid had coached India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title before Gambhir took over, while Laxman currently heads the BCCI Centre of Excellence, which plays a key role in nurturing the next generation of players.

Gambhir Reveals Who Stood By Him During Difficult Period

Gambhir also thanked chief selector Ajit Agarkar and ICC chairman Jay Shah for backing him when results were not going India's way.

"Ajit Agarkar, who took a lot of flak and worked with a lot of honesty. And to Jay bhai. During my lowest ebb in my tenure after losing to NZ and then SA (at home in Test series in 2024 and 2025), he called me," he noted.

Reflecting on the team's aggressive strategy, Gambhir emphasised the importance of fearless cricket.

"We have to let go of the fear of losing. Rather than playing conservative cricket, getting out for 120 is okay. The hallmark has been bravery and showing courage to score 250 in semis and finals," Gambhir said.

Suryakumar Yadav Backs Gambhir's Leadership

India's T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav credited Gambhir for creating a strong team culture and revealed that their long-standing relationship helped the team succeed.

"Surya made my job easier. He has been a leader who is a father figure. Bigger purpose is to celebrate trophies, not milestones. For too many years we have celebrated milestones. I will urge you people to stop celebrating personal milestones," Gambhir reiterated.

Suryakumar echoed the sentiment while speaking about their partnership.

"I played 4 years under GG's captaincy (for Kolkata Knight Riders). We have never had arguments as the common goal was how the team can win. Our friendship was set. He walked 2 steps and I walked 2 steps," said Suryakumar, who added that the team would now like to win gold in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

He added, "I can't say this is India's white-ball era. Had it been our white-ball era, we wouldn't have lost two of the last three ODI series.

"I have picked teams based on faith and trust. I have never ever picked a team based on hope."

India Dominate Final With Bat And Ball

India delivered a clinical performance in the final, posting a massive 255 for five after a powerful display from the top order. Sanju Samson led the charge with a blazing 89, while Abhishek Sharma smashed 52 and Ishan Kishan struck 54 as New Zealand's bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught.

In reply, New Zealand were bowled out for 159. Jasprit Bumrah produced a superb spell of 4 for 15 in four overs, while Axar Patel chipped in with 3 for 27 to seal India's emphatic victory and confirm their place in T20 World Cup history.