India pulled off a stunning victory to end their 11-year ICC trophy drought, winning the T20 World Cup for the second time in their history. In a thrilling final against South Africa at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, India set a formidable total of 176/7, the highest ever team total in the history of the T20 World Cup final. Virat Kohli played a crucial innings, scoring 76, with support from Shivam Dube, who added 27 runs towards the end.
South Africa’s chase began disastrously as Jasprit Bumrah cleaned up Reeza Hendricks in the second over, followed by Arshdeep Singh dismissing Aiden Markram in the third, leaving them reeling with two quick wickets down. Earlier, India’s top order had struggled against Keshav Maharaj, who took the wickets of Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant, and Kagiso Rabada, who dismissed Suryakumar Yadav, leaving India at a precarious position inside the powerplay. Axar Patel provided stability with a well-played 47 before being run out by a brilliant throw from Quinton de Kock.
India’s bowlers held their nerve, securing a memorable win and the coveted T20 World Cup trophy, bringing joy to Indian cricket fans worldwide.