India’s triumphant return as T20 World Cup champions after defeating South Africa in the final has sparked nationwide celebrations. The team’s arrival in New Delhi was met with euphoric fans, marking the beginning of a jubilant homecoming for the cricketing heroes.

The Journey of Homecoming

The Indian team’s journey back from the Caribbean were delayed due to Hurricane Beryl, but the anticipation only heightened the excitement. After a long wait, the players finally touched down in New Delhi, bringing with them the glittering T20 World Cup trophy.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: Catches by SKY and Axar included in ICC’s best catches for the tournament

The scene at the airport was electrifying. Despite the monsoon rain, fans gathered in large numbers, chanting “India, India” as they awaited their heroes. The players, adorned with gold medals, walked out to a roaring reception. Vice-captain Hardik Pandya, sporting a Caribbean hat, was the first to emerge, followed by captain Rohit Sharma who proudly held the trophy aloft.

Heroes’ welcome at ITC Maurya Hotel

Special arrangements were made at the ITC Maurya Hotel to welcome the team. As the players arrived, they were greeted by the rhythmic beats of dhols. Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya danced with the trophy, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The hotel lobby was adorned with a special cake to honor the champions.

Individual Highlights

Rohit Sharma’s leadership throughout the tournament was pivotal, and his triumphant entry with the trophy was a moment to behold. Hardik Pandya’s charismatic presence energized the crowd, and Suryakumar Yadav, fresh off his stunning catch in the final, was a fan favorite.

Virat Kohli, whose hometown is Delhi, received some of the loudest cheers. His broad smile and waves to the crowd captured the joy of the moment. Rishabh Pant, another local star, was the first to enter the hotel, greeted by enthusiastic fans and staff.

Special celebrations

The celebrations included traditional bhangra dancing, with Rohit, Surya, and Hardik leading the way. The joyous atmosphere was infectious, and even those who didn’t dance were seen smiling and clapping along. The special cake in the lobby was a sweet tribute to the team’s achievement.

Meet with PM Narendra Modi

The team was scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later that day. This interaction was not only a formal felicitation but also a moment of national pride. The Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of their victory added to the significance of the win.

Victory parade in Mumbai

Following their stay in New Delhi, the team set to travel to Mumbai for a victory parade. The parade, starting from Nariman Point and ending at Wankhede Stadium. Fans in Mumbai were eager to join the celebrations and show their support.

This victory ended an 11-year drought for global cricket trophies for India, with their last win being the Champions Trophy in 2013. The 2011 World Cup victory at home, under the captaincy of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, was the last time India held the coveted trophy. This win revived memories of past glories and ignited hopes for future successes.