India is currently revelling in the success of their T20 World Cup 2024 victory, which they clinched by defeating South Africa in a thrilling final, ending an 11-year ICC trophy drought. After arriving in Delhi on the morning of July 4, the team proceeded to Mumbai for a grand victory parade towards Wankhede Stadium.
Interestingly, the Vistara flight from Delhi to Mumbai that carried Team India had the code ‘UK1845’, which combined the jersey numbers of Virat Kohli (18) and Rohit Sharma (45). This special touch was a tribute to the two cricketing legends who retired from T20Is after the World Cup win. The team was welcomed on the flight with a cake-cutting ceremony, personalized handwritten cards, special baggage tags, and themed meals to honour their achievement.
How India Won the T20 World Cup 2024 Final
India won the toss in the final and opted to bat first. The start was shaky as Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant were dismissed early by Keshav Maharaj. Suryakumar Yadav also fell cheaply, leaving India in trouble. However, Axar Patel and Virat Kohli stabilized the innings with a crucial 72-run partnership. Axar scored a quick 47 off 31 balls before being dismissed. Kohli then took charge, scoring 76 off 51 balls, with Shivam Dube adding a valuable 27 off 16 balls. India posted a total of 176/7 in their 20 overs.
In response, India got off to a strong start, taking early wickets of Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram. However, Quinton de Kock and Tristan Stubbs brought South Africa back into the game. Heinrich Klaasen’s rapid half-century off 22 balls swung the momentum towards South Africa. But Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya turned the tide back in India’s favor, with Pandya taking 3 wickets and Bumrah 2, ultimately leading India to victory.
Celebration and Recognition
The victory parade in Mumbai saw massive crowds gathering to celebrate with the team. Fans lined the route to Wankhede Stadium, chanting and cheering for their heroes. The gesture of using the flight code ‘UK1845’ and the onboard celebrations highlighted the respect and admiration for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s contributions to Indian cricket. This historic win has reignited India’s passion for cricket and brought immense joy to fans across the nation.