In a match filled with excitement and nail-biting moments, India emerged victorious in the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa, securing a seven-run win at the Kensington Oval. This victory marked India’s second T20 World Cup title, their first since 2007, and ended an 11-year ICC trophy drought. Mohammed Siraj was quick to heap praise on his teammate Jasprit Bumrah, whose exceptional bowling spell played a pivotal role in India’s triumph.
Siraj’s Praise for Bumrah’s Game-Changing Spell
Mohammed Siraj couldn’t hold back his emotions as he lauded Jasprit Bumrah’s match-winning performance. “My only belief was on Jassy (Bumrah) bhai (To turn this game around). He’s the only game-changer. Whatever I thought exactly happened. Unbelievable feeling guys, can’t explain,” said an emotional Siraj after India’s historic win.Â
Bumrah’s sensational spell of 2/18 was crucial in restricting South Africa to 169/8, ensuring India’s second T20 World Cup victory.
Kohli’s Stellar Knock Sets the Stage
India’s innings began on a rocky note, with the team struggling at 34/3 during the powerplay. However, Virat Kohli stepped up when it mattered the most, delivering a brilliant 76 off 59 balls, his first fifty of the tournament. Kohli’s innings, laced with six fours and two sixes, was pivotal in guiding India to a competitive total of 176/7. Kohli was well-supported by Axar Patel, whose aggressive 47 off 31 balls helped stabilize the innings after the early setbacks.
Chasing 177, South Africa faced early blows with Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh striking crucial early wickets. Bumrah cleaned up Reeza Hendricks for four runs, while Arshdeep dismissed skipper Aiden Markram, leaving South Africa at 12/2 in 2.3 overs. Despite a counter-attack by Tristan Stubbs and Quinton de Kock, who targeted Indian spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel, South Africa struggled to maintain momentum.
Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive 52 off 27 balls reignited South Africa’s hopes, but India’s death bowlers, particularly Hardik Pandya, ensured a tight finish. Pandya’s final over, despite a dropped catch by Rishabh Pant, saw him dismissing David Miller and securing the crucial wicket of Kagiso Rabada. South Africa ended their innings at 169/8, falling short by seven runs.
Hardik Pandya’s Emotional Moment and Team Effort
Hardik Pandya, who played a crucial role with both bat and ball, was visibly emotional after the match, reflecting on India’s journey and the hard-fought victory. His performance, alongside Jasprit Bumrah (2/18) and Arshdeep Singh (2/20), was instrumental in India’s success. Pandya’s final over was particularly crucial, showcasing his composure under pressure.
“Last World Cup we lost the final. Every professional cricketer wants to win the World Cup final. I’m grateful I’m here and thankful,” Siraj added, highlighting the team’s collective relief and joy.
This victory is a monumental achievement for Indian cricket, marking their second T20 World Cup win after the iconic 2007 triumph under MS Dhoni. It also ended India’s 11-year wait for an ICC trophy, their last being the Champions Trophy in 2013. India’s unbeaten run throughout the tournament underscored their dominance and resilience.
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