The T20 World Cup 2026 had one of those moments that fans just don’t forget. On Thursday night at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Jacob Bethell smashed a stunning century against India, scoring 105 runs off just 48 balls. After the match, the RCB cricketer found his dad in the stands and the two shared a long, emotional hug. England missed out on the win by just seven runs, but Bethell’s performance was unforgettable. Bethell didn’t just light up the scoreboard; he showed everyone he’s the real deal.
The Hug That Went Viral
It was that moment after the game, when Bethell walked off the field after getting run out in the last over. His dad was waiting for him near the family section. Jacob didn’t say much; he just wrapped his arms around his father, and they held each other. That hug exploded on social media, especially on X.
Jacob Bethell with his father after his destructive knock against India in the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Bro will be remembered forever for his innings. Well played, Bethell. pic.twitter.com/cSXpnj5zIX
— Sonu (@Cricket_live247) March 6, 2026
For the Bethells, it meant everything. The past few months had been a blur: Jacob had just scored his first Test century in Sydney during the Ashes, which was huge. Watching his father lose it in the stands while the Wankhede crowd, mostly Indian fans, stood and clapped for Jacob was one of those rare moments when sport brings everyone together, no matter who they’re cheering for.
India Survives A Mighty Scare To Reach Ahmedabad Final
Jacob Bethell gave it everything, but India ended up grabbing the last spot in the final in Ahmedabad. Sanju Samson set the tone early, smashing 89 from just 42 balls and pushing India to a huge total of 253 for 7. He wasn’t alone as Shivam Dube chipped in with 43, Ishan Kishan added 39, and the Men in Blue hammered 19 sixes, matching their own record.
England’s response started badly. Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, and Harry Brook all fell early, and suddenly things looked shaky. Still, Bethell teamed up with Will Jacks (who scored 35) and dragged England back into the contest. The game hung in the balance right up to the last overs. Then Jasprit Bumrah bowled a tight 18th over, giving away just six runs, and Hardik Pandya pulled off a sharp run-out to dismiss Bethell in the final over. That was it. India held their nerve and booked their place in the final.
Also Read:
