Rohit Sharma, after enduring a semi-final knockout and two defeats in the finals last year, has finally led India to their first trophy under his captaincy. The Men in Blue emerged victorious against South Africa, clinching the T20 World Cup title. This win marks a significant moment for the Indian cricket team and for Rohit Sharma, who has faced numerous challenges and doubts over the past years.
In the aftermath of India’s semi-final loss to England in 2022, Rohit Sharma and senior pro Virat Kohli took a break from T20 International cricket. For over a year, their absence fueled speculation about the future of Indian cricket, with many presuming their careers in the shortest format had ended. However, their remarkable return in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup 2024 ignited mixed reactions among fans and critics.
“I wanted this badly,” Rohit Sharma revealed when he announced his retirement from T20Is. “When India lost the 2023 World Cup final, there was a feeling that the T20 team could go completely young and get new faces into the team, but as they say, it was meant to be not just Rohit and Kohli, but Ravindra Jadeja too retired from the format with a World Cup in their hands.”
The aftermath of India’s World Cup win saw an outpouring of emotions. Rohit Sharma, overcome with joy, took to social media to share his feelings. He posted a picture of himself lying on the ground, clearly relishing the moment of triumph. “This picture epitomizes how I’m feeling right now. So many words but can’t find the right ones to express what yesterday meant to me but I will, and I will share them, but right now I’m basking in a dream come true for a billion of us.”
In addition to the celebratory posts, Rohit took a moment to address the heartfelt gesture from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who personally called to congratulate the Indian skipper. “Thank you so much @narendramodi sir for your kind words. The team and I are very proud to be able to bring the cup home and are truly touched by how much happiness it has brought everyone back home,” Rohit conveyed via X (formerly Twitter).
Narendra Modi’s message to Rohit Sharma was filled with praise. “Dear @ImRo45, You are excellence personified. Your aggressive mindset, batting, and captaincy have given a new dimension to the Indian team.
. Your T20 career will be remembered fondly. Delighted to have spoken to you earlier today,” PM Modi tweeted. The Prime Minister also reached out to Virat Kohli and outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid, extending his congratulations to them as well.
In the wake of this historic win, BCCI secretary Jay Shah announced a substantial reward to the victorious team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declared a prize money of INR 125 crore for the championship-winning Indian team. This gesture is a testament to the significance of their achievement and the impact it has made on the nation.
The 2024 T20 World Cup was not only about winning the trophy but also about overcoming personal and professional hurdles for key players. Virat Kohli, who faced criticism and tough questions about his place in the T20 team, proved his mettle alongside Rohit. Kohli’s experience and performance provided stability and confidence to the squad, further justifying their inclusion in the team. Similarly, Ravindra Jadeja’s contribution in the tournament was pivotal, making his retirement on a high note an inspiring story for many.
Despite the jubilant mood, the journey was not without its challenges. The team had to navigate early tournament jitters, adapt to varied pitches, and strategize against formidable opponents. Their determination paid off, culminating in a thrilling victory over South Africa, which was sealed with an unforgettable performance by the team as a whole.
The celebration of this T20 World Cup victory is expected to have long-lasting reverberations in the world of cricket in India. Young aspirants now look up to this team as role models, inspired by their resilience and unity. For Rohit Sharma, the victory is a personal and professional milestone, closing his T20I career with a chapter of glory that will be remembered for years to come.
As the team prepares to return home, albeit delayed due to a hurricane disrupting travel plans, the players and Indian cricket fans alike are ready to embrace the triumphant return of their heroes. The World Cup title is more than just a trophy; it symbolizes the return of belief, the affirmation of perseverance, and the joy of reaching the pinnacle of success against all odds.
