It’s been exactly one month and a day since the cricket-loving nation of India erupted in celebration as the team defeated South Africa by seven wickets to clinch the 2024 T20 World Cup in Barbados. The journey to this triumph was long and fraught with disappointments: 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2022, and 2023 all saw near-misses. For 11 years after their 2011 and 2013 victories, India had been unable to secure an ICC title. In that time, MS Dhoni retired, careers began and ended, and the wait for another ICC trophy grew more agonizing.
This long wait finally ended on June 29, 2024, bringing relief to years of anticipation. The victory also marked the end of T20 international careers for two of India’s greatest players, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The emotional farewell was evident as tears flowed, symbolizing the highs and lows they had experienced together, from their first World Cup win to this final triumph.
Following the victory, the entire nation awaited the return of their heroes. Originally scheduled to arrive on July 1, their return was delayed by Hurricane Beryl, which caused flight cancellations and stranded the team, support staff, and media in Bridgetown, Barbados. The city shut down for two days due to the Category 5 hurricane. Eventually, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah arranged a chartered flight for the team after the airports reopened.
The flight, AIC24WC, became one of the most tracked in history as it carried the Indian contingent and the World Cup trophy back home. After a 16-hour journey, the flight landed in Delhi around 6 AM on July 4, greeted by a sea of fans eager to see their favorite cricketers. The team had a busy schedule ahead, meeting the Prime Minister before heading to Mumbai for a roadshow and a ceremony at the Wankhede Stadium. Despite the long flight, there was no sign of jetlag among the players.
The details of what happened inside the flight have fascinated many. According to a Star Sports producer on board, the atmosphere was lively and hardly anyone slept for more than six hours. Players mingled, spoke with the press off the record, and interacted with others on the flight. Notably, Rohit Sharma was seen jokingly scolding someone, and Rahul Dravid sought a place to sleep in the economy section.
The flight took off from Barbados at 4:00 AM local time. Upon landing, the magnitude of their victory became clear as airport staff greeted the team with applause and fans gathered outside the airport, some chasing after the bus as it departed.
Such a victory is a rare and celebrated event, and the memories of this win will be cherished for years to come.