Opting to bat first in the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup, India set a challenging total of 176 runs, thanks to Virat Kohli’s determined 76 and Axar Patel’s dynamic 47, despite early setbacks.
South Africa also stumbled initially but were revived by gritty performances from Quinton de Kock, Tristan Stubbs, and Heinrich Klaasen, bringing them tantalizingly close to victory.
However, Indian pacers turned the tide after the 15th over, securing a thrilling seven-run win and ending an eleven-year ICC trophy drought for India. Hardik Pandya, tasked with defending 16 runs in the final over, was overwhelmed with emotion as tears streamed down his face upon successfully clinching the victory.
Following the match, the Indian team members were visibly emotional, with the support staff rushing onto the field to celebrate. Hardik received heartfelt embraces from his teammates, and captain Rohit Sharma even planted a kiss on his cheek during a post-match interview.
— Johnson (@Johnson427427) June 29, 2024
— Johnson (@Johnson427427) June 29, 2024
Despite facing boos from the audience during his Mumbai Indians days in IPL 2024, Hardik’s redemption in national colors sparked a flurry of reactions on Twitter, celebrating his pivotal role in India’s triumphant journey.
