Wankhede Stadium launched T20 World Cup 2026 with Bollywood glamour and a sense of nostalgia. Rohit Sharma was met with a standing ovation as Suryakumar Yadav’s 84 saved India from a scare against the USA.
Wankhede Welcomes Rohit Sharma With Emotion and Applause
The Wankhede Stadium experienced a surge of emotion, nostalgia, and goosebumps as the T20 World Cup 2026 was formally inaugurated on Saturday.
Bollywood allure, vibrant music, and stunning visuals dominated the night, yet it was clear: the loudest cheer was for Rohit Sharma.
Returning to the field where he guided India to World Cup victory in 2024, Rohit appeared deeply emotional.
Field par khade hote hue, Tournament Ambassador ne kaha, “Yahan ajeeb lag raha hai.” “Waha se idhar ajeeb lag raha hai”, yeh bataate hue ke is taraf dhaage ke khilaf hone ka kya ajeeb ehsaas hai jabke woh team ko aage laana chahte the.
The audience sensed it as well. Rohit received a standing ovation, with “Mumbai Cha Raja” chants echoing through the crowd. “It’s always great to be here,” he remarked afterward. “They are passionate about their cricket here.” ” Mumbai’s vibe is always exhilarating.”
Rohit stood with ICC chairman Jay Shah to formally unveil the tournament, raising the trophy again.
For supporters in Mumbai, it was an emotional moment: their hometown star holding the trophy once more, albeit just symbolically this time.
“Rohit pondered, “It evokes an emotional sensation.” “I’m still not accustomed to being on this side of the field.” “Times like these won’t return.”
‘Pagal Hai Kya?’: Rohit Sharma’s Playful Advice to SKY
When the teams gathered for the toss, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav approached his former captain for prompt guidance on the decision to make if India won the toss.
Yadav, smiling and feeling rushed, inquired of Rohit, “Jaldi bolo batting karu ya bowling?”
Rohit Sharma replied in his usual laid-back manner, “Fielding kar, pagal hai kya?” which left everyone nearby in laughter.
Even Yuzvendra Chahal, while on broadcasting duty, couldn’t help but dash over to greet his ex-captain.
India withstands USA threat
And just as the nostalgia faded, the cricket dealt its own blow to the gut.
On the opening day, the USA became the third team to pose a surprise, dismantling India’s formidable batting lineup and putting them in a precarious position at 46/4 and 77/6.
Then Suryakumar Yadav stepped in.
Dropped on 17, SKY transformed turmoil into mastery with an incredible 84 off 49*, a performance that was equally about evasion and aggression. On a challenging pitch, he turned the game around in the final stages — scoring 48 runs from his last 18 balls, featuring a chaotic 21-run last over, sending wide deliveries to the leg-side boundary and frequently landing flat on his back.
With a target to protect, India’s bowlers completed the task. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh claimed early wickets and maintained pressure throughout the chase, achieving the lowest successful T20I defense at Wankhede
✅FAQ Block
❓ What did Rohit Sharma say to Suryakumar Yadav before the toss?
Rohit Sharma jokingly told Suryakumar Yadav, “Fielding kar, pagal hai kya?” when SKY asked for quick advice on whether to bat or bowl.
❓ Why was Rohit Sharma’s presence at Wankhede emotional?
Rohit Sharma returned to Wankhede Stadium, where he had earlier guided India to a World Cup victory, and received a standing ovation from the Mumbai crowd.
❓ What role did Rohit Sharma play during the T20 World Cup 2026 opening ceremony?
Rohit Sharma unveiled the T20 World Cup 2026 trophy alongside ICC chairman Jay Shah during the opening ceremony at Wankhede Stadium.
❓ How did India recover after early batting troubles against the USA?
Suryakumar Yadav scored an unbeaten 84 off 49 balls, stabilizing India’s innings after a collapse and helping the team reach a defendable total.
❓ Why is Rohit Sharma still significant to Indian cricket despite not playing?
Rohit Sharma’s leadership legacy, emotional connection with fans, and influence on current players continue to define major moments in Indian cricket.
🌟 ‘Maharani Season 4’ OTT Release: Everything You Need To Know About Huma Qureshi’s Political Drama
November 7, 2025
Image Credit: Sony Liv
‘Harish Rai’ Passes Away at 55: ‘KGF’ Fame Actor Remembered for His Legacy and Courageous Cancer Battle
November 7, 2025
Veteran actor Harish Rai, known for his significant parts in “Om” and the “KGF” series, died at the age of 55 from cancer. Kannada film is in mourning. Over the course of his decades-long career, Rai left a legacy of powerful performances. He had earlier discussed the financial burden of his therapy and expressed gratitude to “KGF” star Yash for
UIDAI Aadhaar Card Data Reveals Kerala Has More Cards Than People — What’s Going On ?
November 6, 2025
UIDAI Aadhaar card:-The UIDAI has taken steps to maintain the integrity of the Aadhaar database by turning off the Aadhaar numbers of people who have died. New programs have been put in place to stop abuse and make data more accurate. For example, the myAadhaar portal now has a death reporting function. Kerala has 4,09,68,282 Aadhaar cards compared to a
‘The Taj Story’ Box Office Day 5: Paresh Rawal’s film stays strong, eyes the ₹10 crore milestone
November 5, 2025
Despite early controversy, Paresh Rawan’s “The Taj Story” has performed admirably at the box office, defying expectations. With ₹8.16 crore in its first week of release, the movie is on track to outperform a number of other productions. Keeping up the momentum into its second Friday is crucial to its success. Can ‘The Taj Story’ cross the ₹10 crore milestone
🌟IND vs AUS T20I 2025: Thrilling Fourth T20 Clash Awaits in Gold Coast
November 5, 2025
IND vs AUS T20I 2025:-Cricket fans around the world are gearing up for an electrifying encounter as India and Australia lock horns in the fourth T20 International of the IND vs AUS T20I 2025 series. The high-voltage match is set to take place on November 6, 2025, at the scenic Bill Pippen Oval in Gold Coast, Australia. With the five-match
West Indies vs New Zealand 1st T20I: How To Watch Live, Match Timing, and Full Preview
November 5, 2025
West Indies vs New Zealand:Live streaming of the first Twenty20 International between New Zealand and the West Indies: Tim Seifert, the hosts’ first-choice wicketkeeper, will not play in the series opener. West Indies vs New Zealand:-As New Zealand plays West Indies in the first T20I of a five-match series in Auckland, the focus will be on getting ready for the
Nepal vs UAE Today Match Preview: Pitch Analysis & Expert Predictions
November 5, 2025
Nepal vs UAE:Predicted starting lineup for the 91st match between the United Arab Emirates and Nepal, live streaming, weather and pitch updates, and a comprehensive match preview: Today’s World Cup League Two match between the United Arab Emirates and Nepal is crucial. Both sides’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup are in jeopardy as they struggle around the bottom
SBI Clerk Prelims Results 2025 Declared: Here’s How to Check and Download Scorecard at sbi.co.in
November 4, 2025
SBI Clerk Prelims Result 2025 Date, Time: After the result link goes live, candidates who took the exam on September 20, 21, and 27, 2025, will be able to verify their eligibility for the Mains stage. SBI Clerk Prelims Result 2025 time and date: The SBI Clerk (Junior Associate) Preliminary Exam Result 2025 will soon be available on the State
“It: Welcome to Derry” – Where Friendship Lights the Darkest Corners of Fear
November 4, 2025
“It: Welcome to derry”-The young cast of the prequel series, including Amanda Christine, Clara Stack, Matilda Lawler, Arian S. Cartaya, and Blake James, talk about the excitement of entering the renowned horror franchise, the anxieties they faced for their parts, and the enjoyment they had on set. Why ‘It: Welcome to Derry’ Is More Than Just Another Horror Series: “It:
2025 Hyundai Venue: A Stylish Makeover With Smart Features & Competitive Pricing
November 4, 2025
Today, Hyundai Motor India plans to introduce the 2025 Hyundai Venue SUV to the Indian market. We’re providing you with real-time updates from the launch event, where Hyundai’s well-liked small SUV receives its most recent makeover complete with daring style changes, cutting-edge technology, and more. In the sub-4m SUV market, the Venue has been one of Hyundai’s top competitors. The