India ended their 13-year wait for an ICC Cricket World Cup trophy by defeating South Africa by seven runs to lift the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in a thrilling final at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados.
South Africa, seeking their first world title, fell short against a formidable Indian bowling lineup in a match that swung back and forth.
Nail-Biting Chase
Chasing a target of 177, the Proteas seemed in control, needing 71 runs off 45 balls with six wickets in hand and Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen leading the charge.
However, India never gave up. All-rounder Hardik Pandya removed Klaasen in his first over and followed it with the crucial wicket of David Miller, thanks to a stunning catch by Suryakumar Yadav on the long-off boundary.
Jasprit Bumrah also delivered under pressure, breaking key partnerships at crucial moments. His in-swinging delivery to bowl out Marco Jansen paved the way for India’s victory.
Virat Kohli’s Heroics
Before the dramatic conclusion, Virat Kohli played a pivotal role in setting a challenging target for South Africa. After captain Rohit Sharma and key batsmen Rishabh Pant and Suryakumar Yadav were dismissed early, Kohli steadied the innings.
Despite criticism over his form, Kohli stepped up when it mattered most. He started confidently with two fours and kept the scoreboard ticking even as wickets fell around him. His partnership with Axar Patel, who hit four sixes and one four in his 31-ball 47, revived India’s run rate.
Kohli, transitioning from 50 in 48 balls to 76 in 59, ensured India posted a formidable total for the final. Shivam Dube’s quick 27 from 16 balls added valuable runs, despite Anrich Nortje’s efforts for the Proteas.
South Africa’s Struggle
South Africa’s bowlers had a mixed day. Nortje was the standout with his pace, while Jansen and Kagiso Rabada struggled, giving away runs. Spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi had limited success, with Maharaj taking two wickets.
Kohli’s Farewell
After the game, Virat Kohli, named player of the match, announced his retirement from T20 internationals. “This is my last T20 World Cup, and this is exactly what I wanted to achieve,” he said. Reflecting on the long wait for a world title, Kohli expressed gratitude for getting the job done.
“It’s been a long wait not just for me, but for the entire team. Rohit has played nine T20 World Cups, and this is my sixth. We all deserved this moment.”
Kohli emphasized the importance of this win and looked forward to the next generation taking over. “It’s now or never. This is my last T20 game for India, so I wanted to make the most of it. The next generation will carry the team forward.”
