Right before the start of the first T20I game, the viewers became witness to an unusual event in Kinngsmead, Durban. The Indian national anthem reportedly stopped twice due to a possible technical glitch midway during the anthem.

In the first instance, the national anthem stopped and the players were left singing all by themselves. But when the glitch occurred a second time, players including the likes of Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar, and Tilak Varma were left bewildered and their hilarious reaction soon went viral on social media like wildfire.  

Watch the full incident here

Technical issues while playing India national anthem at South Africa #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/zERCrEi3DV

— Mr.Perfect 🗿 (@gotnochills007) November 8, 2024

It was a light moment for the Indian team as the players were seen chuckling around in this video footage. Hardik on one hand could be observed clapping his hands together with a smile on his face while Axar, who was standing next to him was also full of smiles. However, on the contrary, the South African team did not face any such hiccups of this sort when their country's national anthem was played. 

Calm before the storm

Although players shared a light moment before the start of the game, very few could have accurately speculated the carnage that was to follow. Sanju Samson launched a scathing attack on the Proteas bowlers and smashed his second consecutive T20I ton to power India to a commanding first innings total of 202-8. During his scintiliating knock, Samson amassed 107 in 50 balls which included seven fours and a mind-boggling 10 sixes. 

In reply, South Africa were a no-show with the bat and the target proved way beyond their reach as they were bundled out cheaply for only 141. 

See also: Controversial India vs Bangladesh Kanpur Test venue rating revealed

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 was more than just a cricket tournament; it was a stage for redemption, forgiveness, and unexpected heroics. At the center of this narrative stood Hardik Pandya, the enigmatic all-rounder who had faced both criticism and adulation throughout his career.

Before the T20 World Cup, Pandya’s journey was tumultuous. His performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) had been under scrutiny, especially after his transfer back to the Mumbai Indians from the Gujarat Titans. As if that wasn’t enough, he was handed the captaincy, replacing the iconic Rohit Sharma. The Mumbai crowd didn’t hold back, booing him during matches, and social media trolls had a field day.

Consistency in the tricolor

However, whenever Pandya donned the Indian jersey, he transformed. His consistency in limited-overs cricket was remarkable. Whether with the bat, ball, or in the field, he gave his all. The T20 World Cup was his chance to silence the doubters and prove his worth on the biggest stage.

T20 Performance in 2024: Pandya’s T20 performances in 2024 were nothing short of spectacular. He contributed with both bat and ball, playing crucial roles in India’s victories. His ability to finish games under pressure made him indispensable. But it was the final match that etched his name in cricketing folklore.

The final showdown

In the T20 World Cup final against South Africa, Pandya found himself in a high pressure situation. With South Africa needing 27 runs to win from the last four overs, he was entrusted with the final over. It was a battle of nerves, skill, and determination.

Interestingly, it was a clash of Mumbai Indians teammates Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. In IPL 2024, Rohit had often taken the responsibility of bowling the last over. But this time, he handed the ball to Pandya. The tension was palpable. The crowd held its breath.

Pandya delivered. Yorkers, slower balls, and unwavering focus he defended the target, conceding only 12 runs. The final delivery, a pinpoint yorker shattered the stumps. India won and Pandya emerged as the match winner. The same fans who had once criticized him now showered him with praise.

Netizens apologize to Hardik Pandya

Social media exploded with apologies. Netizens acknowledged their misjudgment and celebrated Pandya’s redemption. Haters turned into fans and Pandya’s journey became a testament to resilience and determination.

Hardik Pandya’s last over in the T20 World Cup final wasn’t just about cricket; it was a lesson in perseverance, belief, and the unpredictable nature of sports. As the confetti rained down at the Kensington Oval, Pandya had rewritten his story – from being booed to being hailed as a hero. And in that moment, cricket transcended boundaries, proving that redemption is always within reach.

Twitter reactions:

India’s skipper Rohit Sharma decided to retire from T20 Internationals after leading the team to its second World Cup win in this format. He felt it was the right moment to “say goodbye”.

Shortly after Virat Kohli retired from T20I cricket, India captain Rohit Sharma announced his decision to step away from the shortest format of the game on Saturday, June 29.

The two cricketers chose to end their T20I journey following India’s thrilling victory over South Africa in the T20 World Cup final in Barbados. Kohli decided to retire after winning the Player of the Match award at the Kensington Oval, while Rohit confirmed his decision during a press conference after the win.

Rohit Sharma bids farewell to T20Is after T20 World Cup triumph

“That was my last game as well. Honestly, I’ve cherished every moment since I began playing this format. There’s no better time to bid farewell to it. I’ve loved every bit of it. I started my India career with T20Is, and this is how I wanted to finish—winning the Cup and saying goodbye,” Rohit shared, even as reporters in Barbados encouraged him to continue playing.

Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma clarified that he will “very much” continue playing ODIs and Tests, emphasizing that he has retired only from T20 internationals.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma concluded their T20I careers on a high note, securing a World Cup title together for India for the first time. Kohli’s impactful 76 off 59 balls earned him the Player of the Match award, helping India reach 176 runs after being put in to bat first. India clinched victory by 7 runs in the thrilling final against South Africa to claim their second T20 World Cup trophy.

For Rohit Sharma, this victory marked the end of a long quest for a title as captain. Having faced disappointment in recent years, including a semifinal loss in the 2022 T20 World Cup and setbacks in the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup, Rohit’s emotions overflowed as he celebrated on the field after the final delivery.

He jubilantly danced while collecting the T20 World Cup trophy during the presentation ceremony and proudly posed with Virat Kohli, holding the Indian flag together at the Kensington Oval.

India’s triumph in the T20 World Cup marked a significant moment for MS Dhoni, prompting him to break his social media silence to celebrate the Indian team victory. Despite his infrequent online presence, Dhoni took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message, describing India’s win as an early and priceless birthday gift. The photo he posted captured the essence of the Indian team achievement, reflecting Dhoni’s pride in their historic performance.

The final, held in Barbados, saw India clinch victory by seven runs against South Africa, securing their unbeaten title in the tournament. Dhoni, renowned for his leadership during India’s first T20 World Cup win in 2007 and subsequent triumphs in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy, expressed immense satisfaction at witnessing another milestone in Indian cricket history.

MS Dhoni Breaks Silence: Celebrating India’s T20 World Cup Triumph

“WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS 2024. My heart rate was up, well done on being calm, having the self belief and doing what u guys did,” Dhoni wrote on Instagram.

“From all the Indians back home and everywhere in the world a big thank you for bringing the World Cup Home. CONGRATULATIONS. arreeee thanks for the priceless birthday gift,” he added.

Despite several close calls in ICC events since 2013, where India reached five finals but finished as runners-up each time, the team’s perseverance paid off. Their 11-year quest for another global trophy concluded dramatically with a thrilling win over South Africa at Kensington Oval. Notable performances by Virat Kohli, who scored 76, and Axar Patel, with a crucial 47, helped India post a competitive total of 176/7 in their allotted 20 overs.

Dhoni’s return to social media underscored the joy and significance of the moment for both himself and Indian cricket enthusiasts worldwide. His message of gratitude and celebration resonated deeply, marking this victory as a testament to the team’s resilience and skill on the international stage.

On a flat track in Barbados, Bumrah bowled two incredible deliveries that got him two wickets. The first one was outstanding, possibly one of the best in the tournament and finals history. It angled into Reeza Hendricks, pitched, and then seamed away to hit the top of off stump, beating the batter’s outside edge.

India’s pace bowlers made a remarkable comeback in the final overs. Even though Axar Patel gave up 24 runs in the 15th over, the pacers stayed calm. Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh took important early wickets, and Hardik Pandya provided great support.

In his first over, Bumrah gave away five runs and eight runs in the next, including one boundary that was a shaky steer through deep third.

Bumrah’s tight bowling in death overs

But his last two overs were crucial. He gave away only four runs in the 16th over and in the 17th over he conceded just two runs. Bumrah’s final figures were 2-18.

In the last five overs, the pacers bowled dot balls and took key wickets, leading to a thrilling seven-run defense. Suryakumar Yadav’s catch was a game-changer, adding to the excitement. The Indian team, cheered on by over a billion fans, celebrated a hard-fought victory that highlighted their determination and skill.

Twitter reactions:

SEE ALSO: Watch: Rahul Dravid’s never seen moment after winning T20 World Cup 2024 goes viral

Hardik Pandya kept his nerves to defend 16 runs in the last over to help India beat South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 final and clinch the ICC championship title after a 17-year wait. The scenes at the Kensington Oval in Barbados were a mix of jubilation and raw emotion, highlighting the significance of this triumph for the Indian team and its ardent supporters.

India’s batting innings

India’s innings began with early struggles as South African bowlers struck quickly. However, key partnerships, especially involving Virat Kohli and other middle-order batsmen, helped India stabilize and set a competitive total. Kohli’s experience and calm under pressure were vital in guiding the team.

See Also: Virat Kohli retires from T20I cricket after winning T20 World Cup 2024 final

South Africa’s chase

South Africa’s chase was marked by early breakthroughs from Indian bowlers, putting them on the back foot. Despite this, key partnerships and a spirited fightback kept the Proteas in the game, making the match a thrilling contest.

The final over drama

The last overs of the match were filled with tension as Hardik Pandya was tasked with defending 16 runs. Every ball became crucial, with Pandya showcasing immense composure and skill. His performance in the final over was a testament to his ability to handle pressure and deliver when it mattered most.

The winning moment

As the final wicket fell, securing India’s win, Rohit Sharma, the team’s captain, fell flat to the ground, overcome with emotion. Rahul Dravid, the team’s head coach, leaped out of his chair in celebration, embodying the relief and ecstasy felt by millions of Indian fans worldwide.

Rohit Sharma’s emotional reaction

Rohit Sharma’s reaction to the victory was a mix of relief and joy. The memory of past disappointments, especially the last final they reached undefeated but lost, seemed to flood back. This victory was not just about winning a trophy; it was about overcoming past failures and vindicating years of effort and dedication.

Rahul Dravid’s celebration

Rahul Dravid’s reaction was a moment of pure joy. Known for his calm demeanor, Dravid’s leap of celebration highlighted the significance of the win for him and the entire team. His guidance and mentorship have been crucial in shaping the team’s success.

Hardik Pandya’s redemption

Hardik Pandya, who faced immense scrutiny and criticism in recent years, was seen in tears, overwhelmed by the magnitude of the moment. From being labelled public enemy number one in India to becoming a world champion, Pandya’s journey epitomizes resilience and redemption. His tears of joy symbolized the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance.

Virat Kohli’s role

Virat Kohli, a key player in India’s cricket history, mirrored the scenes from 2011 when he carried his idol on his shoulders after India’s World Cup victory. This time, he was seen hugging everyone in his eyeline, sharing the joy and relief of this monumental win. Kohli’s contributions throughout the tournament were pivotal in India’s success.

The team’s celebration

The Indian players, drenched in ecstasy, flooded the playing field as the dugout emptied to join the celebrations. The crowd, roaring at the top of their lungs, created a deafening soundscape that reverberated around the stadium. The joy and excitement were palpable as the team celebrated their historic win.

The atmosphere in the stadium

The atmosphere in the stadium was electric. The crowd’s reaction and energy played a significant role in boosting the players’ morale. The sight of fans celebrating, waving flags, and chanting was a testament to the passion and love for cricket in India.

South Africa’s heartbreak

For South Africa, it was another heartbreak as they fell short, unable to clinch the title. The team fought valiantly, but the loss was a bitter pill to swallow. Reflection on their journey highlighted their resilience and determination, promising a stronger comeback in future tournaments.

The T20 World Cup 2024 final at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, has been an electrifying contest so far. India, aiming for their second T20 World Cup title, faced South Africa, who were seeking their first. The match has seen remarkable performances and dramatic twists, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.

Early Setbacks

India’s start was less than ideal, with the team reduced to 34 for 3 within the first 4.3 overs. Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada dealt early blows, dismissing key players Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Suryakumar Yadav. The powerplay proved challenging on a pitch that offered some assistance to the bowlers.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: How much prize money will the winner take home?

Keshav Maharaj’s early impact

Keshav Maharaj played a pivotal role in disrupting India’s top order. In the second over, he dismissed Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant, both attempting aggressive shots but failing to execute. Maharaj’s clever use of flight and variation put India on the back foot early in their innings.

Kagiso Rabada’s key wicket

Adding to India’s woes, Kagiso Rabada removed Suryakumar Yadav in the fifth over. A back-of-length delivery forced an error from Yadav, who was caught at deep backward square leg. This wicket left India in a precarious position, needing a solid partnership to recover.

Virat Kohli’s anchoring role

Amidst the early chaos, Virat Kohli stood firm. Known for his ability to anchor the innings, Kohli adopted a measured approach, focusing on rotating the strike and building a partnership. His resilience was crucial in steadying the Indian innings.

Axar Patel’s crucial knock

Promoted up the order, Axar Patel joined Kohli at a critical juncture. Patel’s aggressive intent and ability to find gaps provided much-needed momentum. His performance was instrumental in pulling India out of trouble, complementing Kohli’s steady presence.

The 72-Run partnership

Kohli and Patel’s partnership of 72 runs was the turning point for India. They played with a blend of caution and aggression, targeting loose deliveries while respecting the good ones. This stand not only stabilized the innings but also set the platform for a competitive total.

Axar Patel’s dismissal

Axar Patel fell just short of his half-century, scoring 47 off 31 balls. His dismissal was a setback, but by then, he had done significant damage, helping India recover from their early losses. His innings featured powerful hitting and smart running between the wickets.

Kohli’s continued resilience

Virat Kohli continued to hold one end, accumulating runs with his trademark elegance. He reached his half-century and pushed on, ensuring that India had a fighting total. Kohli’s 76 off 59 balls was a testament to his ability to perform under pressure.

Virat Kohli scores in the T20 WC finals
77 (58) vs SL, Mirpurr, 2014
76 (59) vs SA, Bridgetown, 2024

Late Flourish by Kohli and Dube

In the final overs, Kohli, along with Shivam Dube, added vital runs to the total. Their quick scoring in the death overs was crucial, with Dube’s cameo providing the acceleration India needed. This late surge took India to a formidable score of 176 for 7.

South African bowling analysis

South Africa’s bowlers had a mixed day. Keshav Maharaj and Anrich Nortje were the pick of the bowlers, each taking two wickets and keeping the run rate in check. However, Marco Jansen struggled, conceding 49 runs in his four overs. The spinners found some grip on the dry pitch, but overall, India managed to counter the bowling effectively.

Most sixes hit in a T20 World Cup final

The record for the most sixes hit in a T20 World Cup final is held by M Samuels, who hit 6 sixes against Sri Lanka in Colombo in 2012. Other notable performances include Misbah-ul-Haq with 4 sixes against India in Johannesburg in 2007, Virat Kohli with 4 sixes against Sri Lanka in Mirpur in 2014, C Braithwaite with 4 sixes against England in Kolkata in 2016, Mitchell Marsh with 4 sixes against New Zealand in Dubai in 2021, and Axar Patel with 4 sixes against South Africa in Bridgetown in 2024.

Highest 1st innings total in T20 WC final

The highest first innings total in a T20 World Cup final is 176/7 by India against South Africa in Bridgetown in 2024. This is followed by Australia’s 173/2 against New Zealand in Dubai in 2021, New Zealand’s 172/4 against Australia in Dubai in 2021, West Indies’ 161/6 against England in Kolkata in 2016, and India’s 157/5 against Pakistan in Johannesburg in 2007.

India and South Africa are gearing up to face off in the final of the T20 World Cup 2024 in Barbados this Saturday, June 29. As the excitement builds many are curious about the prize money the teams will take home from this prestigious tournament.

India is vying for their second T20 World Cup title while South Africa hopes to secure their first-ever World Cup win in cricket history. Beyond the glory of the championship, there’s a substantial amount of prize money up for grabs in this edition of the tournament. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a record-breaking prize pool, highlighting cricket’s increasing global appeal, particularly as the World Cup is being hosted for the first time in the United States of America.

Record-Breaking prize money

The total prize pool for the T20 World Cup 2024 is a staggering $11.25 million, setting a new benchmark in the sport. What will the teams in the final earn? Both India and South Africa are poised to receive significant sums for reaching the final match of the T20 World Cup 2024. The winners are set to take home $2.45 million (approximately Rs 20.40 crores), plus additional bonuses, marking the highest prize ever awarded in the tournament’s history.

Meanwhile, the runners-up will earn at least $1.28 million (about Rs 10.67 crore), and the teams that reached the semi-finals but did not advance will each receive $787,500. Teams exiting after the second round will take home $382,500 each, while those placing between ninth and 12th will receive $247,500 each.

For teams ranked from 13th to 20th place, the prize is $225,000 per team. Additionally, every team will earn an extra $31,154 for each match won during the tournament, except for the semi-finals and finals.

This substantial prize money underscores the importance and competitiveness of the T20 World Cup 2024, making it a pivotal moment for cricket fans and players alike.

“This event is historic in so many ways, so it is fitting that the prize money for players reflects that. Hundreds of millions of fans around the world will be entertained by the players in what we’re hoping to be an Out of This World event.” ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice remarked on the event’s historic significance

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup prize money in rupees

SEE ALSO: Why is Prafull Billore, aka ‘MBA Chai Wala’, supporting South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 Final?

The much-anticipated ICC T20 World Cup 2024 final has started at the iconic Kensington Oval in Barbados. Both India and South Africa have showcased impeccable form throughout the tournament, remaining undefeated.

The Unlikely Supporter: Prafull Billore and his ‘Reverse Jinx’

In an interesting twist to the final, Indian entrepreneur Prafull Billore, famously known as MBA Chaiwala, has become a viral sensation on social media. Despite being an Indian, Billore is humorously supporting South Africa, a trend that has caught the attention of many cricket enthusiasts.

See Also: Here’s why David Miller is biggest threat for Indian team in T20 World Cup 2024 Final

The ‘Panauti’ (bad luck) memes began circulating after Billore posted a selfie with Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav. Billore shared the photo on X (formerly Twitter) on June 21, and the next day, Yadav scored only six runs in a T20 match against Bangladesh. This coincidence led to playful speculation about Billore’s supposed jinx effect.

Turning Tides: Billore’s embrace of the meme culture

Instead of shying away from the trolling, Billore leaned into the joke. He began posting edited photos of himself with players from teams facing India, claiming to use his “jinx” power against them.

Before the semi-final against England, Billore shared doctored images featuring himself with English cricketers Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer, humorously asserting his reverse jinx ability. Following India’s decisive 68-run victory over England, Billore’s antics were celebrated by netizens.

Billore’s tweets before final showdown

Billore has now extended his reverse jinx support to the South African team, sharing images of himself with their players and even posing in front of the South African flag with the hashtag #Istandwithsouthafrica. This quirky narrative has added an extra layer of excitement to the final.

As India prepares to take on South Africa in Barbados, Billore’s reverse jinx has become a part of the pre-match buzz. The Indian team is eager to end its ICC trophy drought, having last won an ICC title in 2013. With the memory of recent losses in the WTC Championship and ODI World Cup final in 2023 still fresh, India’s quest for victory is more intense than ever.

Tonight’s final is set to be a thrilling encounter, and cricket fans are eagerly waiting to see if Billore’s meme magic will have any impact on the outcome.

As India and South Africa gear up for their high-stakes clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 Final at Kensginton Oval, Bridgetown in Barbados. England win the toss and choose to field first. India have won the toss and have opted to bat.

India’s Journey in T20 World Cup 2024

India dominated the group stage with clinical victories over Ireland, Pakistan, and the USA. They continued their winning streak in the Super 8 stage, comfortably defeating Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Their next challenge was Australia, a team that had often troubled them in the past. However, India overcame this hurdle with another convincing win, advancing to the semi-finals undefeated. In the semi-finals, India faced England. Rohit Sharma led the batting with a solid performance, securing a 68-run victory.

Throughout the tournament, India has been impressive, especially when batting first. Out of their seven wins, five have come from setting a target, and each victory has been decisive. So far, no opponent has truly challenged India, highlighting their dominance in the competition.

South Africa’s Journey in T20 World Cup 2024

South Africa’s batting lineup struggled on the challenging surfaces in the USA, often finding it difficult to put up competitive scores. During the group stage, South Africa faced tough competition from the Netherlands, Bangladesh, and Nepal, with all three matches being closely contested.

In the Super 8 stage, South Africa secured narrow victories against both the USA and England. They then faced the West Indies in a virtual knockout match and once again, managed to hold their nerve under immense pressure. Their best performance came in the semi-final against Afghanistan, where they delivered a dominant win, completely outclassing their opponents.

South Africa vs India: Who said what at the toss?

Rohit Sharma: We’re going to bat first, looks a good pitch. We’ve played one game here, the scores have been really good. Just about understanding indivdual roles, I know it’s a big occassion but it’s important to remain calm and play it like it’s another international game against a good team. South Africa have been some good cricket but so have we. It’s going to be a really good game between two quality teams. Different individuals have stepped up at different times and that’s what we’re looking forward to today as well.

Aiden Markram: Would’ve batted first as well, looks dry. But we get first crack with the ball so hopefully we can do well. At times we haven’t been at our best but we’ve still managed to win and we take confidence from that. Perfect isn’t possible but we want to be as close as possible to that. There’s absolutely no pressure on us, we’ve never been in a final and we just want to enjoy it and be at our best. Same team for us.

Playing XIs:

India: Rohit Sharma(c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

South Africa: Quinton de Kock(w), Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram(c), Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi