India clinched the T20 World Cup for the second time in history with a stunning victory over South Africa, ending an 17-year ICC trophy drought. Coach Rahul Dravid, visibly emotional, excited and proud, accepted the trophy, with Mukesh Ambani posting on X, “Dravid saab activated his Indira Nagar Ka Gunda mode.”
In a thrilling final at the Kensington Oval in Barbados, India set a formidable total of 176/7, the highest team total in T20 World Cup final history, which shows the coaching skills of Rahul Dravid. Virat Kohli played a pivotal innings, scoring 76, with late support from Shivam Dube, who added 27 runs.
South Africa’s chase started poorly as Jasprit Bumrah bowled Reeza Hendricks in the second over, followed by Arshdeep Singh dismissing Aiden Markram in the third, leaving them struggling with two quick wickets. Earlier, India’s top order faltered against Keshav Maharaj, who took the wickets of Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant, and Kagiso Rabada, who dismissed Suryakumar Yadav, putting India in a precarious position during the powerplay. Axar Patel then stabilized the innings with a well-played 47 before being run out by Quinton de Kock.
India’s bowlers held their nerve to secure a memorable victory and the coveted T20 World Cup trophy, bringing immense joy to Indian cricket fans worldwide.