Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is set to host a blockbuster clash on March 5 as India takes on England in the second semifinal of the T20 World Cup 2026. All eyes will be on Hardik Pandya, who stands just 23 runs away from surpassing KL Rahul in India’s all-time T20 run-scorers list.
Currently ranked fifth among India’s top T20 batsmen, Pandya has amassed 2,243 runs in 136 matches. Rahul holds the fourth spot with 2,265 runs from 72 games. A modest contribution of 23 runs against England would propel Pandya ahead, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Leading the charts is Rohit Sharma with an impressive 4,231 runs in 159 matches, followed closely by Virat Kohli’s 4,188 runs at a blistering strike rate of 137 across 125 outings. Suryakumar Yadav occupies third place with 3,261 runs.
Pandya’s tournament form has been a mixed bag. In seven matches, he has scored 172 runs at a strike rate of 156, including two half-centuries, and claimed six wickets. However, his performances against top teams have raised eyebrows. Against South Africa in the Super 8s, he managed only 18 runs and conceded 45 runs in four overs. Similarly, versus West Indies, he leaked 40 runs while scoring just 17 off 14 balls.
Indian fans and team management will be hoping Pandya turns up in top form for this crucial semifinal. A strong showing with bat and ball could not only help India reach the final but also etch his name higher in the record books. The stage is set for Pandya to deliver when it matters most.