The final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup between the India national cricket team and the New Zealand national cricket team is taking place today at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Gujarat. The much-awaited clash is also being screened in cinemas across the country, where it has generated an impressive amount through ticket sales.
According to early estimates, the India vs New Zealand match has earned around Rs 3.50 crore to Rs 4 crore from cinema screenings, registering strong footfalls in theatres. This is considered a solid figure for a sporting event being showcased on the big screen, as cinema premieres for cricket matches are still a relatively new concept.
In comparison, the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final between India and the South Africa national cricket team had collected approximately Rs 1.50 crore from its theatrical screenings. The latest match has therefore recorded nearly a 60 percent jump in box office revenue, indicating the growing popularity of watching live cricket in cinemas. If the trend continues, this format could soon become a regular viewing experience for fans.
For the uninitiated, India has reached the final for the fourth time in the history of the T20 World Cup — the highest for any team. Interestingly, six of the previous nine finals have been won by the side batting second, while India claimed victory in two of the other three finals in 2007 and 2024.
Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India enters the final as the defending champion, while Mitchell Santner’s New Zealand side will be looking to chase down the target and secure the trophy. It remains to be seen whether Team India can lift the T20 World Cup title for the third time.