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.
Why LeBron James Is Wearing a Special Patch in His 23rd NBA Season
January 13, 2026
LeBron James showcases a unique patch on his Lakers uniform in Sacramento, celebrating his 23rd NBA season. LeBron James’ jersey will narrate a tale each evening for the remainder of the season. LeBron James’ Jersey Patch Tells a 23-Year Story When the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Sacramento Kings on Monday — appropriately, in the city where his NBA
Why Did WNBA–WNBPA CBA Talks Break Down?
January 13, 2026
WNBA and WNBPA initiate a moratorium after not reaching an agreement on a new CBA, pausing free agency and expansion initiatives due to disagreements over salary cap proposals and revenue sharing. WNBA Free Agency Explained: Why Everything Is Suddenly Frozen? The WNBA offseason has come to a halt. The league and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) have reached
Why WNBA Players Say the Two Sides Are Still “Far Apart”
January 13, 2026
The collective bargaining agreement of the WNBA has ended without a new arrangement, as discussions have halted on salary and revenue sharing, even with the league’s rising popularity. The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement officially ended at midnight Friday, with the league and players’ union still at odds over key matters and no extension anticipated. The deadline had been extended twice,
Man United Consider Michael Carrick as Caretaker After Amorim Exit
January 12, 2026
Michael Carrick is in advanced discussions to take over as Manchester United’s caretaker head coach following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, and Solskjaer has also been interviewed. Old Trafford might soon be seeing the return of another well-known figure. Various sources indicate that ex-Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is leading the race to become caretaker head coach, as the club seeks stability
How Did the Cavaliers Accidentally Score for the Timberwolves?
January 12, 2026
Nae’Qwan Tomlin of the Cleveland Cavaliers unintentionally directed a jump ball into his own hoop, giving the Minnesota Timberwolves two points in a 146–134 victory for the Cavs. The Cleveland Cavaliers might have triumphed over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night — yet for one strange instance, they also tallied points for the rival team. In a moment likely unprecedented
28,000 Runs in 624 Innings: Virat Kohli Overtakes Sachin Tendulkar
January 12, 2026
Virat Kohli Overtakes Sachin Tendulkar | On Sunday, during the first ODI against New Zealand at the Kotambi International Stadium (BCA) in Vadodara, Virat Kohli achieved 28,000 international runs. He became the quickest player to reach the milestone, doing so in 624 innings. The former record was set by Sachin Tendulkar, who achieved the milestone in 644 innings. Kohli stepped
“I Don’t Feel Good About It”: Virat Kohli Calls Out Crowd Cheering Indian Wickets
January 12, 2026
Virat Kohli voiced his unease over fans celebrating Rohit Sharma’s dismissal, noting he witnessed similar behavior towards MS Dhoni and feels ‘uncomfortable with it’. Virat Kohli stated on Sunday (January 11) that he ‘doesn’t feel comfortable’ when the home fans cheer and celebrate an Indian player getting out, merely to witness the legend come to bat. The identical situation occurred
Where Did Daniil Medvedev Win His 22nd Career Title?
January 12, 2026
Daniil Medvedev triumphed at the Brisbane International, securing his 22nd career title in a distinct 22nd city. Pitbull may need to clear some space — tennis has a fresh Mr. Worldwide, and he’s called Daniil Medvedev. World No. 13 Medvedev began 2026 in impressive fashion, maneuvering and battling his way to the Brisbane International title and further enhancing his expanding
How Did Endrick Perform on His Lyon Debut? One Goal, One Statement
January 12, 2026
Endrick dazzled in his Lyon debut, netting the crucial goal against Lille in the Coupe de France and propelling Lyon to the round of 16. Endrick quickly caught France’s attention. On a chilly evening in northern France, the 19-year-old Brazilian scored on his debut for Lyon, appearing at the far post to secure a 2–1 Coupe de France victory against
Why Macclesfield vs Crystal Palace Will Be Remembered as the Greatest FA Cup Shock
January 11, 2026
Macclesfield shocked Palace 2-1, marking the first time a non-league team has knocked out FA Cup champions. The 117-place gulf is currently the biggest disparity ever bridged in FA Cup history. Sixth-tier Macclesfield FC achieved the most remarkable upset in the tournament’s history, eliminating defending champions Crystal Palace 2-1, causing a stir in English football. A non-league team had never