World Champions: India Wins T20 World Cup 2nd Time After 17 Years
India wins the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, defeating South Africa by seven runs in a thrilling final, sparking nationwide celebrations.
India erupted in joy on Saturday as Team India won the ICC T20 World Cup, with fans flooding the streets waving the Tricolour. Social media was buzzing with congratulatory messages and celebratory scenes as India edged past South Africa by seven runs in the final at the Kensington Oval, Barbados.
Virat Kohli, who struggled throughout the tournament with just 75 runs in seven innings, smashed a crucial 76 off 59 balls against South Africa. His performance helped India set a target of 177 runs.
The final match was a nail-biter, with the advantage swinging between the two teams. South Africa, needing 30 runs from the last 30 deliveries, appeared to have the upper hand. However, Indian bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Arshdeep Singh held their nerve. Pandya, in particular, shone in the final over, defending 16 runs with Surya Kumar Yadav taking a stunning catch. South Africa finished at 169/8 in 20 overs, falling short by seven runs.
Emotions ran high as Rohit Sharma punched the ground in celebration and Virat Kohli raised his hands in triumph. Rohit and Kohli shared an emotional hug, posing with the Indian flag and the World Cup trophy.
Kohli handed the trophy to coach Rahul Dravid, who held it up and screamed in joy. Kohli also insisted his teammates carry Dravid on their shoulders in celebration. Hardik Pandya, who faced recent scrutiny, was seen in tears, becoming a world champion despite earlier criticism. Rohit Sharma interrupted Pandya’s interview to kiss him on the cheek, creating one of the most heartwarming post-match moments.
Prime Minister Modi and President Droupadi Murmu praised the team's "never-say-die" spirit. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Mahendra Singh Dhoni also congratulated the team.
This victory marked India’s second T20 World Cup win, 17 years after their first in 2007, and their first ICC title in 11 years. However, the joy was bittersweet as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja announced their retirement from T20 International cricket. Coach Rahul Dravid also concluded his term.
India's T20 World Cup win was historic, with the team remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament. The ICC awarded India $2.45 million (Rs. 20.42 crore) in prize money, while the BCCI announced Rs. 125 crore for the team.
Currently, the Indian team is staying indoors in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl. The airport is shut, and a curfew is in place as the hurricane is expected to hit soon.
India's victory has brought immense joy and pride to the nation, with everyone eagerly awaiting more such triumphs in the future.
