India and New Zealand are set to square off in the final of the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Sunday (March 8).

On the eve of the title clash, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav addressed a press conference, where he responded to comments made by Kiwi counterpart Mitchell Santner about silencing the home crowd, citing that such remarks have become common before marquee fixtures.

Earlier in the day, Santner told the media: "The goal is to silence the crowd. There are a lot of variables in T20 cricket, and it is fickle at times. If we go out about our business the same way we can upset another big team. There's obviously a lot of pressure on in there (on India) to win this World Cup at home."

His statement was similar to one made by Pat Cummins before the 2023 ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, where Australia had crushed India’s dream of lifting the coveted title.

Reacting to the remark, Suryakumar told reporters: "Sab he same line chipka rahe hai. Kuch to naya bolo (Everyone is now saying the same thing. Come up with something new)."

While Surya acknowledged that leading the side in a World Cup final comes with pressure, he wants to enjoy the occasion. He added that the atmosphere in the Indian dressing room remains positive as the team gears up for the final.

"It's a special feeling and everyone is very excited. We have a very good environment in the group. We are looking forward to the big final," he said.

"As a leader, there would be pressure; I cannot deny that. Definitely, there would be added pressure, the excitement is there of playing a World Cup final, that too in India," Suryakumar remarked.

India defeated England by seven runs in a high-scoring semifinal at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday (March 5) and became the first defending champions to reach the final of the T20 World Cup. The Men in Blue will look to become the first team to lift the coveted trophy thrice when they face the Black Caps on Sunday.