India secured a thrilling seven-run victory over South Africa to clinch the T20 World Cup title at Kensington Oval on Saturday.
Virat Kohli’s brilliant 76 guided India to a competitive total of 176-7. Despite Heinrich Klaasen’s aggressive 52 off 27 balls, South Africa fell short, finishing at 169-8, with Hardik Pandya taking 3-20 for India amidst enthusiastic support from their fans.
Kohli, who had struggled earlier in the tournament, played a decisive innings under pressure, steadying India after a shaky start at 34-3 following captain Rohit Sharma’s decision to bat first.
In a tournament known for low scores, South Africa’s chase seemed daunting until Quinton de Kock (39) and Tristan Stubbs (31) set a solid foundation. Klaasen then shifted momentum with a quickfire 24 off an over from Axar Patel. After Klaasen’s dismissal, Pandya’s pivotal spell left South Africa needing 26 off 23 balls.
Captain Rohit’s strategic move to bring in Jasprit Bumrah paid off, as he delivered a crucial over, conceding just two runs and taking a key wicket. Arshdeep Singh’s disciplined bowling further tightened the game, leaving South Africa to chase 20 runs from the last two overs.
With 16 required off the final over, Pandya’s delivery was hit high by Miller, but Suryakumar Yadav’s spectacular boundary catch denied a potential six, ensuring India’s victory. Despite some late drama, India held their nerve to secure the title.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the team’s historic achievement, while former England captain Michael Vaughan praised India as deserving champions. The International Cricket Council hailed Kohli as a cricket icon following his retirement from T20I cricket, and former players such as Shahid Afridi, Saqlain Mushtaq, and Ahmed Shehzad lauded Kohli for his career-defining performance in the final.
“What a fitting way to end your career by winning the World Cup and getting the Man of the Match award. The greatest of our generation,” said Shehzad, capturing the sentiment surrounding Kohli’s legacy.