India secures ICC T20 World Cup 2024 title with stellar performances from Rohit Sharma, Axar Patel, and Hardik Pandya. © Twitter (@asadazmi78)
India defeated South Africa by seven runs in a thrilling final at Bridgetown, Barbados, to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The win not only adds another trophy to India’s cricketing legacy but also brings home a substantial reward of INR 125 crore (approximately USD 15 million) from the BCCI. The ICC had earlier announced a prize of USD 2.45 million for the winners.
Rohit Sharma Leads from the Front
The Indian captain, Rohit Sharma, played a pivotal role in leading his team to victory. His leadership on and off the field was instrumental in India’s unbeaten run throughout the tournament. The final match against South Africa showcased not just individual brilliance but also a collective effort from the entire team.
Key Performances
Axar Patel – The Unsung Hero
Axar Patel’s performance in the final was a game-changer. Promoted up the batting order, Axar contributed a vital 47 off 31 balls, including four sixes, forming a crucial partnership with Virat Kohli. His aggressive batting style put pressure on South Africa’s bowlers, especially Keshav Maharaj, who was rendered ineffective against Axar’s onslaught.
With the ball, Axar’s economical spell of 2 for 23 in three overs was crucial in restricting South Africa’s chase. He was an invaluable asset to the event because of his versatility in handling various match situations and conditions.
Hardik Pandya – The Comeback King
Hardik Pandya’s journey to the final was marked by resilience and determination. Overcoming injuries and criticism, Pandya delivered when it mattered most. In the final, he scored vital runs and took crucial wickets, including the critical dismissal of Heinrich Klaasen in the penultimate over. His all-round performance throughout the tournament, with 144 runs and 11 wickets, played a significant role in India’s success.
The Final Showdown
India’s Innings
Select to bat first after winning the toss, India posted a challenging total of 176 for 6 in their 20 overs. Rohit Sharma gave a solid start with a brisk 38 off 28 balls. Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a composed 56 off 45 balls, but it was Axar Patel’s explosive batting that provided the much-needed impetus towards the end.
South Africa’s bowlers struggled to contain the Indian batters, with Tabraiz Shamsi being the most successful bowler, claiming 2 for 34 in his four overs. Keshav Maharaj, despite his initial success, was unable to finish his quota, mainly due to Axar’s aggressive batting.
South Africa’s Chase
Chasing 177, South Africa got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets. However, a resilient partnership between Quinton de Kock and David Miller brought them back into contention. De Kock scored a valiant 66 off 44 balls, while Miller contributed a crucial 54 off 32 balls.
The turning point came when Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya bowled tight overs towards the end, leaving South Africa needing 30 runs off the last three overs. Bumrah’s reverse swing and Pandya’s accurate cutters created immense pressure, culminating in Pandya defending 14 runs in the final over to seal the victory for India.
Post-Match Celebrations
The victory was met with jubilant celebrations both on the field and back home in India. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah announced the INR 125 crore reward, lauding the team’s exceptional talent, determination, and sportsmanship.
Looking Ahead
India’s T20 World Cup victory is not just a testament to their skill and teamwork but also sets a benchmark for future tournaments. With a combination of seasoned athletes and up-and-coming talent, India looks poised to dominate the cricketing world in the years to come.
