India’s Historic Win at Kensington Oval
India edged past South Africa by 7 runs in a thrilling final match of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Kensington Oval, Barbados, clinching an ICC title after 11 years. This victory marked India’s first T20 World Cup win in 17 years, with Virat Kohli announcing his T20I retirement after the historic win.
The Final Showdown: India vs. South Africa
Defending 176/7, India’s dream of ending their ICC title drought seemed unlikely as South Africa needed just 30 runs off the last 30 balls, with set batters Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller at the crease. Rohit Sharma’s side needed a miraculous performance to turn the tide, and they delivered. Jasprit Bumrah bowled a crucial four-run over, followed by Hardik Pandya dismissing Klaasen in another tight over.
Bumrah then conceded only two runs in the 18th over and removed Marco Jansen. Arshdeep Singh’s four-run penultimate over set the stage for a tense finish. Hardik Pandya bowled the final over and got Miller out on the first ball, thanks to Suryakumar Yadav’s sensational catch at long-off. India held their nerves and won the game by a seven-run margin.
Virat Kohli’s Final T20I Innings
Earlier, Virat Kohli anchored the Indian innings with a gritty knock, helping the team post a total of 176 for 7 – the highest total by any team in a men’s T20 World Cup final. India was reduced to 34 for 3 in 4.3 overs, but a crucial 72-run stand between Kohli and Axar Patel bailed the team out of trouble. Axar scored 47 off 31 balls, while Kohli smashed 76 off 59.
The Climactic Final Moments
India’s Tense Victory
India has won this game by 7 runs in what was a thrilling and exceptional match. The victory brings an ICC title home after 11 years. Hardik Pandya, who bowled the final over, was emotional, marking a historic moment in Indian cricket.
Celebrations and Emotions
Rohit Sharma was emotional after India’s win, and Mohammed Siraj was seen in tears, his face red from emotion. Rohit and Virat Kohli hugged, giving fans a heartwarming moment. Hardik Pandya continued to cry and was given a towel to wipe his tears.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah Joins the Celebrations
BCCI secretary Jay Shah couldn’t hold back his emotions and greeted the players. He hugged Hardik Pandya and lifted him for a few seconds. Hardik now had an Indian flag in hand while Mohammed Siraj, still emotional, appeared in front of the camera for a short interaction.
Virat Kohli Announces T20I Retirement
Virat Kohli announced his retirement from T20Is after the game. “This was my last T20 World Cup; this is exactly what we wanted to achieve. One day you feel like you can’t get a run, and then this happens. God is great. This was my last T20 game playing for India,” he said.
Jasprit Bumrah Named Player of the Tournament
Jasprit Bumrah was named Player of the Tournament. “Usually, I’m the one who tries to keep my emotions in check and get the job done, but today I don’t have many words. We were in trouble, but we’re over the moon to win from that stage. My family is here, and there’s no better feeling than to get your team through in a game like this,” said Bumrah.
Virat Kohli Named Player of the Match
Virat Kohli, who announced his retirement from T20Is, was named Player of the Match in the final. His gritty 76 off 59 balls turned the game for India, ending his T20I career on a high note.
Captain Rohit Sharma Reflects on the Journey
“Very hard to sum up what we have been through for the last 3-4 years. We work very hard as a team, and a lot has gone on behind the scenes. It is not just today; it is what we have been doing for the last 3-4 years. We have played lots of high-pressure games and come on the wrong side too. But the guys understand what needs to be done when the back is against the wall. I am very proud of this bunch of boys,” said India captain Rohit Sharma.
India’s triumph in the T20 World Cup 2024 final marks a significant milestone, ending a 17-year wait for the T20 World Cup title and an 11-year ICC title drought. This victory is a testament to the team’s resilience and hard work over the years, setting the stage for a new era in Indian cricket.
