The city of Mumbai transformed into a sea of blue on July 4 as thousands of cricket fans gathered to celebrate India’s T20 World Cup 2024 victory. The jubilant atmosphere was palpable as the Indian cricket team, led by captain Rohit Sharma, paraded through the streets in an open-top bus, waving to ecstatic supporters.
The victory parade started at the NCPA and made its way to Wankhede Stadium, covering a one-kilometer route. Fans from all walks of life lined Marine Drive, cheering and chanting “India, India” as the team showcased the T20 World Cup trophy. The parade culminated at Wankhede Stadium, where the players addressed the crowd.
“Mumbai never disappoints,” an emotional Rohit Sharma said to the gathered fans. “We got a solid reception. On behalf of the team, we would like to thank the fans. I am very, very happy and relieved.”
The captain also took the opportunity to praise Hardik Pandya for his performance in the final. “Obviously, Hardik was bowling those crucial overs for us. Hats off to him for bowling the last overs. You know, no matter how many runs you make, there’s so much pressure to bowl that over. Hats off to him,” Sharma said. The crowd responded with loud chants of “Hardik, Hardik,” to which Pandya humbly waved and thanked the fans.
The celebrations were not just confined to the fans. Virat Kohli, another stalwart of the team, expressed his admiration for Jasprit Bumrah. “I am sure like everyone in this stadium, we also felt that—man, is it going to slip away? What I want everyone to do is applaud a guy who brought us back in the tournament again and again. A huge shoutout to Jasprit Bumrah. We are lucky that he plays for us,” Kohli said, drawing massive applause from the audience.
The journey to this celebration was not easy. The Indian team had been stuck in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl, delaying their return. However, a specially arranged charter flight brought them back to India, where they first met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi. Following their interaction with the Prime Minister, the team flew to Mumbai for the grand parade.
At Wankhede Stadium, the atmosphere was electric. Despite heavy rain and congested routes, fans, including students, office-goers, children, and families, turned out in droves. The stadium, filled to capacity, echoed with cheers and applause as the team arrived.
Hardik Pandya, reflecting on his journey, said, “This is a moment I will cherish forever. The support from the fans has been incredible, and it feels great to be part of such an amazing team.”
Rohit Sharma’s words resonated with everyone present. “Mumbai never disappoints,” he repeated, emphasizing the unwavering support of the fans. “This victory is not just ours; it belongs to all of you who stood by us through thick and thin.”
The parade and subsequent celebration at Wankhede Stadium highlighted the unity and passion of Indian cricket fans. The T20 World Cup victory, India’s first ICC trophy in over a decade, has once again ignited the nation’s love for cricket, making this parade a memorable chapter in the annals of Indian sports history.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
