Barbados, June 29, 2024 — In a momentous achievement, Team India lifted the T20 World Cup after 17 long years, edging out South Africa by a narrow 7-run margin in a thrilling final in Barbados. This victory marks India’s second T20 World Cup title and a return to ICC glory after a 13-year hiatus since their last triumph in 2011.
Virat Kohli, who played a pivotal role in the win, was named Man of the Match. In an emotional announcement, he declared his retirement from T20 cricket, making this victory the ultimate farewell to his storied career in the format.
One of the most unforgettable moments of the match was Suryakumar Yadav’s spectacular catch off the first ball of the 20th over, a play that sealed India’s dominant performance and will be remembered by fans for years to come. Yadav’s athleticism and presence of mind were pivotal in securing India’s win, underlining his crucial contribution to the team’s success.
Match Summary
In the high-stakes final, India set a challenging target of 177 runs for South Africa after posting 176/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Virat Kohli led from the front with a commanding 76 runs off 59 balls, ably supported by Axar Patel’s vital 47 off 31 balls and Shivam Dube’s quickfire 27 off 16 balls. South African bowlers Keshav Maharaj (2/23) and Anrich Nortje (2/26) were notable with their performances.
South Africa’s chase began on a shaky note as Indian pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh struck early, reducing them to 12/2 in 2.3 overs with the dismissals of Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram. Despite the early setbacks, Tristan Stubbs and Quinton de Kock counter-attacked, taking the score to 42/2 by the end of six overs.
The partnership between Stubbs and de Kock flourished until Axar Patel broke through by dismissing Stubbs for a brisk 31. De Kock continued to anchor the innings but was eventually dismissed for 39 by Arshdeep Singh. Heinrich Klaasen’s aggressive 52 off 27 balls kept South Africa in contention, but his dismissal by Hardik Pandya tilted the momentum back in India’s favour.
Pandya dismissed Miller for 21 runs, a spectacular catch by Suryakumar Yadav at the boundary. Yadav’s incredible catch to dismiss David Miller off the first ball of the 20th over was a defining moment, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and presence of mind. This pivotal moment shifted the momentum back in India’s favour, ultimately securing the victory. SA was 161/7 in 19.1 overs. Rabada was dismissed next, giving Pandya his third wicket. SA ended at 169/8, with Anrich Nortje (1*) and Keshav Maharaj (2*) unbeaten. South Africa concluded their innings at 169/8, falling short of India’s total by 7 runs.
Hardik Pandya’s stellar bowling performance with figures of 3/20, supported by Jasprit Bumrah (2/18) and Arshdeep Singh (2/20), played a decisive role in India’s triumph. Axar Patel also contributed with a crucial wicket.
Celebrations and Significance
This victory marks a triumphant return to ICC glory for India, reflecting the team’s hard work, resilience, and unwavering dedication throughout the tournament. The win holds special significance as it coincides with Virat Kohli’s retirement from T20 cricket, capping off an era defined by his leadership and excellence.
The ecstatic celebrations among Indian fans worldwide underscore the emotional connection and pride associated with this historic win. As the T20 World Cup trophy returns to Indian soil after 17 years, it symbolizes the culmination of dreams and the beginning of new aspirations in Indian cricket.
Brief Score:
India: 176/7 in 20 overs (Virat Kohli 76, Axar Patel 47; Keshav Maharaj 2/23, Anrich Nortje 2/26)
South Africa: 169/8 in 20 overs (Heinrich Klaasen 52, Quinton de Kock 39; Hardik Pandya 3/20, Jasprit Bumrah 2/18, Arshdeep Singh 2/20)
By: Prince Lumb
( Feature Photo: Team India posing with the trophy. (Photo- ICC X)
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Those of you who like me watched the game on the telly or at the venue must have gone through a roller-coaster of emotions. When Klassen took 22 off one over we felt like switching off the TV and drink our sorrows however the impossible boundary catch Surya took will go down in the history of cricket as one to remember and cherish, not least because this enabled India to win. Virat Kohli then has left at the top, having done his deed opening ways for the newcomers as have Rohit Sharma and Jadeja. Indian cricket has truly arrived and we will remain at the top for years to come. Well done my India