Team India wins T20 WC beat South Africa

India's agonising 11-year wait for a global title was brought to an end by Virat Kohli's ingenuity and Rohit Sharma's inspirational captaincy as the star-studded team outwitted eternal bridesmaids South Africa by seven runs in a see-saw final to lift its second T20 World Cup trophy in Bridgetown on Saturday. Kohli, who was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup triumph, announced his retirement from the format after being adjudged player of the match for his 76-run knock. He wore a detached look on his face after the win but broke down eventually."It's time for the next generation to take over. It was an open secret and I would have announced it even if we would have lost," Kohli said.
Hardik Pandya, booed through the IPL after being handed Mumbai Indians captaincy, broke down after having endured a tough six months and the enduring image would certainly be the kiss planted on his cheeks by the man people rooted for -- Rohit Sharma.

Congratulations Team India on becoming the T20 World Champions. Been the best team in the tournament remaining unbeaten throughout.
Great composure and character shown by the team to win this from the situation we were in with 5 overs remaining.
Every player deserves credit… pic.twitter.com/hE79AeHx8e

— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) June 29, 2024

The result was also a fitting farewell to head coach Rahul Dravid. It was the joint effort of Kohli (76 off 59)and Axar Patel (47 off 31) that allowed India to set the highest total in a T20 World Cup final.
In the high-pressure run chase, India pacers provided two early wickets before a 58-run stand between opener Quinton de Kock (39 off 31) and Tristian Stubbs (52 off 27) put the Proteas back in the game. However, it was Klaasen’s breath taking knock that almost stunned India.
Defending 176/7, India's dream of ending their ICC title drought seemed all but over with South Africa needing run-a-ball 30 to win, with set batters Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller at the crease. The Rohit Sharma-led side needed something magical to turn the tide and the team actually produced one! Jasprit Bumrah bowled a four-run over before Hardik Pandya dismissed Klaasen in what was another four-run over from India.
India were 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 fell for 47 off 31 while Kohli smashed 76 off 59.

Captain Sharma, his eyes glistening, was on his haunches as he was emotionally exhausted. His wife Ritika, watched from the stands, also in tears. To be fair, there wasn't a single soul in the stadium who didn't feel choked by emotions.