Chaminda Vaas predicts finalists of ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Former Sri Lankan pacer Chaminda Vaas predicted India and New Zealand as his finalists for the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. Notably, both India and New Zealand played against each other in the five-match T20I series before the start of the mega event with India coming out on top by 4-1.

Speaking exclusively to NDTV, Vaas spoke candidly on Team India’s domination in the shortest format of the game, Pakistan’s quality bowling line-up and his advice to the Indian pace duo of Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah.

“It's very difficult because even associate teams are performing strongly. Momentum and pressure management are key. But if I have to name two teams, I'll go with India and New Zealand national cricket team,” Chaminda Vaas told NDTV.

“Pakistan always produces quality fast bowlers. Now we're also seeing more spinners coming through, especially in T20 cricket. They have good options. But India plays fearless cricket - the way they bat and approach the game is unbelievable,” he added.

“India have dominated recently, but every game brings its own pressure. It comes down to how well teams absorb that pressure. India usually handle it well, but both sides will be highly motivated. It should be a great contest,” he stated.

When asked about his piece of advice for India’s bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, Vaas stated that the key for the pace duo is handling pressure in crucial moments to deliver for their side.

“Honestly, they don't need advice from me. They're bowling really well, their mindset is strong, and the coaching staff is doing a great job. The key is handling pressure in crucial moments and delivering for the team - and they've been doing that consistently,” he noted.

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