Face the pressure, don’t run away from it. Before the semi-final match, coach Gambhir gave the players the mantra for victory.

Gautam Gambhir to Indian Cricket Team Players: India will face two-time champions England in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2026. This match will be played at the prestigious Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. This match is very important for defending champion Team India. Before the match, head coach Gautam Gambhir advised the players to take the pressure of the knockout match positively.

Don’t run away from pressure, embrace it – Gautam Gambhir

Gambhir, who was part of the 2007 T20 and 2011 ODI World Cup winning teams, admitted that playing the knockouts on home ground brings additional pressure. However, he clarified that the team should not be afraid of this, but should accept it and perform better. In the video shared by BCCI, he gave a message to the players to play openly and enjoy this big stage.

Coach Gautam Gambhir said, ‘One thing is very clear, make sure that we do not run away from pressure. We embrace it, we deal with it, and if we ever feel we are under pressure, we make sure we take the positive path. Enjoy this game, this is what you play this game for, this sport, this is what you have played your whole life.”

Further, he said, ‘This type of match at home, a knockout type match, so make sure that we are excited and not under any pressure. At any time in the next 40 overs, if you feel pressure, make sure we take a positive approach. Well, be brave, enjoy it, enjoy playing for the country, and most importantly, enjoy playing for each other. OK Good luck. Skip. There is good energy. Come on, boys, come on. Come on.”

This is the third consecutive T20 World Cup when India and England are facing each other in the semi-finals. In 2022, England defeated India by 10 wickets, while in 2024, India equalized the score by winning by 68 runs. Now once again both the teams will compete for a place in the finals.

Emotional message for Rinku Singh

Before the team meeting, Gambhir especially encouraged Rinku Singh. Rinku joined the team a day after his father’s death. In this difficult time, the coach assured him that the entire team stands with him.

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He said- “Friends, before we start, Rinku, it takes a lot of courage to come and join the team. Remember one thing: you are not alone. The entire team is standing with you at this time, so stay strong.” This message from Gambhir before the semi-finals can prove to increase confidence and unity in the team.