India secured their second T20 World Cup title yesterday, defeating South Africa in a thrilling final played at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. Chasing 170 to win, the Proteas looked firm favorites as they required just 30 runs from the final 30 deliveries with wickets in hand. However, a late blitzkrieg from the Indian bowlers ensured the Men in Blue sealed a narrow 5-run victory.
The match saw changing fortunes throughout as both teams battled hard in quest of the coveted trophy. Opting to bat first, commanding knocks from Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya helped India post a competitive 169/6 in their 20 overs. However, South Africa were cruising in their chase with Heinrich Klaasen unleashing a flurry of boundaries. Needing the runs to win off the last two overs with wickets in hand, it seemed the trophy was theirs.
But it wasn't to be, as the Indian bowling unit dug deep to stage a comeback. Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya combined to pick the remaining South African wickets and close out a memorable win. Scenes of jubilation followed in the Indian camp as the players and support staff erupted in celebration, capping off a dream campaign.
The victory marked India's second T20 World Cup title, coinciding with player retirements. Inspiring captain Rohit Sharma and batting mainstay Virat Kohli both announced the culmination of their T20I careers after the win. Head coach Rahul Dravid also stepped down after a successful stint in charge. Tributes poured in for the departing trio following their impactful contributions to the Indian team.
India thus avenged their loss in the final of the previous edition in Australia to lift the trophy. A world beating performance over the last few months was fittingly rewarded as a deserving champion was crowned. The moments from the Final will remain etched in Indian cricket folklore for years to come.
