* South Africa choke within touching distance of win
By Dwayne Ferreira
India emerged as T20 World Champions after a thrilling victory over South Africa in Barbados. Opting to bat first, India faced early challenges but were anchored by a brilliant 76 from Virat Kohli, who played a crucial role in setting a target of 176 for 7. Axar Patel also contributed significantly with a vital 47, and Shivam Dube chipped in with a quick 27. South Africa’s bowlers, particularly Keshav Maharaj and Anrich Nortje, kept the Indian batsmen under pressure, with Maharaj taking 2 for 23 and Nortje 2 for 26.
In response, South Africa started strong with Quinton de Kock’s 39 setting the pace. Despite the dismissals of Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive 52 and Tristan Stubbs’ 31 put South Africa in a promising position. However, the match took a dramatic turn in the final overs, with India’s bowlers stepping up their game. Jasprit Bumrah, with figures of 2 for 18, and Arshdeep Singh, with 2 for 20, mounted a relentless attack that turned the tide in India’s favor.
Hardik Pandya’s exceptional bowling, claiming 3 for 20, was pivotal in applying pressure on the South African batsmen. The turning point came when Suryakumar Yadav made a stunning boundary catch to dismiss David Miller, sealing South Africa’s fate. The South African chase faltered as they crumbled under pressure, ultimately finishing at 169 for 8.
Virat Kohli was named Man of the Match for his anchoring innings that laid the foundation for India’s total. The Man of the Tournament accolade went to Jasprit Bumrah for his consistent and match-winning performances throughout the World Cup. India’s victory, their second T20 World Cup title, was a testament to their resilience and strategic acumen, marking a triumphant end to their 17-year wait for the trophy.
Chief Scores :-
India – 176 for 7 in 20 overs (Virat Kohli 76, Axar Patel 47, Shivam Dube 27, Keshav Maharaj 2 for 23, Anrich Nortje 2 for 26, Kagiso Rabada 1 for 36)
South Africa – 169 for 8 in 20 overs (Heinrich Klaasen 52, Quinton De Kock 39, Tristan Stubbs 31, Hardik Pandya 3 for 20, Jasprit Bumrah 2 for 18, Arshdeep Singh 2 for 20)
