India secured the T20 World Cup 2024 championship with a thrilling 7-run victory over South Africa at Kensington Oval in Barbados today.
Batting first after winning the toss, India faced early setbacks during the power play with Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Suryakumar Yadav all departing cheaply.
However, Virat Kohli, under pressure due to recent low scores, rose to the occasion with a crucial 76 off 59 deliveries, including six boundaries and two sixes.
His innings anchored India to a competitive total of 176 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs.
Axar Patel contributed 47 runs, supported by Shivam Dube’s 27.
South Africa’s bowling effort was led by Keshav Maharaj (2 for 23) and Anrich Nortje (2 for 26), who kept India in check despite Kohli’s heroics.
In response, South Africa appeared poised for victory early on, with Quintin De Kock’s 39 and contributions from Tristan Stubbs (31) and Heinrich Klaasen (52).
However, India’s bowlers struck back in the latter stages, with Hardik Pandya’s 3 for 20 and crucial contributions from Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah, restricting South Africa to 169 for 8.
The match turned in India’s favor in the final overs, clinching their victory and the T20 World Cup title.