India Clinches T20 World Cup Title After 13 Years with Thrilling Victory Over South Africa

In a thrilling finale, India clinched the T20 World Cup title, ending a 13-year wait, with a dramatic victory over South Africa. Despite early setbacks, Virat Kohli's resilient innings and key performances from teammates led India to a competitive total. South Africa seemed poised for victory but faltered in the final overs, with crucial wickets falling. Suryakumar Yadav's stunning catch sealed the win, marking a bittersweet farewell for Kohli and Sharma as they announced their retirement from T20 internationals. This victory not only brings joy to fans but also signifies a significant moment in Indian cricket history.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2025, 10:09 IST

India's Long-Awaited Triumph

India celebrated a long-awaited World Cup victory, ending a 13-year drought, with a thrilling win against South Africa in the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup held in Barbados. Batting first, India faced early setbacks as Keshav Maharaj dismantled the top order, taking out Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant in a single over. Kagiso Rabada compounded India's woes by dismissing Suryakumar Yadav, leaving the team struggling at 39 for 3 within the first five overs.

Kohli's Resilience Shines Through

In the midst of the turmoil, Virat Kohli emerged as a beacon of hope, scoring a determined 76 runs despite a lackluster tournament up to that point. His efforts, along with crucial contributions from Shivam Dube and Axar Patel, propelled India to a respectable total of 176, a score that ultimately proved to be just enough.

South Africa's Chase and Klaasen's Impact

South Africa, aiming for their first World Cup title, appeared to be in control as they approached the middle of their innings. By the 14th over, they required just 54 runs from 36 balls with five wickets remaining. Heinrich Klaasen intensified the pressure, hitting 22 runs off an over from Axar Patel, reducing the target to 30 runs needed from 30 balls.

Turning Point: Klaasen's Dismissal and Bumrah's Brilliance

However, India mounted a comeback. Hardik Pandya made a pivotal breakthrough by dismissing Klaasen on the first ball of the 17th over. Jasprit Bumrah then showcased his skill with a brilliant inswinger that bowled Marco Jansen, shifting the momentum in India's favor.

Suryakumar's Stunning Catch Seals the Victory

The decisive moment arrived when Suryakumar Yadav executed a spectacular catch at the boundary to dismiss David Miller, effectively sealing the match and the championship for India. South Africa's innings concluded at 169, falling just seven runs short of their goal.

A Bittersweet Farewell

This emotional victory marked the end of an era, as both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma announced their retirement from T20 internationals, leaving the sport on a high note after delivering India's long-awaited world title.