The 2024 Class 10 Hindi board exam was conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Among the essay questions that were given to the students, there was one question regarding the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. The reason behind including that question was to check how well the students were aware of recent events and how well they understood in order to express themselves.

The 2024 T20 World Cup Overview
The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 was a big cricket tournament co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States. It was held in June 2024 and involved countries sending their teams to compete with one another for the trophy.
The tournament garnered much interest from cricket fans around the world.

CBSE Class 10 Hindi Board Paper.

- Students were asked to write an essay related to the 2024 T20 World Cup. pic.twitter.com/qxfMkixvtL

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 28, 2025

India's Journey to Victory
The Indian cricket team performed very well in the tournament. They played superbly in teams and with good strategy. The last match took place at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown on June 29, 2024. India played against South Africa in an exciting match. India batted first and made 176 runs for 7 wickets, with Virat Kohli adding a crucial 76 runs. South Africa responded with 169 runs for 8 wickets, resulting in India's 7-run win.

This win was historic for India as it was their first ICC trophy in 2013 and their second T20 World Cup title since they won it in 2007.

ALSO READ:Shubman Gill Addresses Fitness Concerns Ahead of India’s Crucial Clash with New Zealand

Why the Topic Was Chosen for the Exam
Having such a topic in the Hindi board exam encouraged students to keep themselves updated about international sporting events. It also required them to pen good essays, criticize moments of importance, and present their views effectively.

Rohit Sharma said he needed "to be smart" and "open up all sides of the field" to counter the strong breeze at the Daren Sammy Stadium in a Super Eight game of the T20 World Cup 2024 against an Australia bowling attack that tried to use that same breeze to make life difficult for him. He was smart enough on the day, hitting a 41-ball 92 with seven fours and eight sixes to lead India to a 24-run win and a spot in the semi-finals as the Group 1 toppers.

Rohit Sharma  92 vs Australia
T20 World Cup Super Eight, Gros Islet
Rohit's ultra-aggressive approach brought him great success during the 2023 ODI World Cup, but he wasn't able to replicate it at the T20 World Cup. Then came the match against Australia. In a high-stakes contest, he smashed 92 off 41 to seal India's semi-final spot. As long as he was at the crease, it was a one-man show. Of India's first 52 runs, 50 came from Rohit's bat alone. He hit Mitchell Starc for four sixes and a four in one over before depositing a Pat Cummins slower ball on the roof of the stadium. In all, he hit seven fours and eight sixes and paved the way for a 200-plus total.

ESPN Cricinfo picks Rohit Sharma's 92 vs Australia as the best batting performance of the year 2024 in Men's T20I. 🔥

- The Hitman magic....!!!! pic.twitter.com/3soU1mjRuW

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 13, 2025

ALSO SEE :  Rajat Patidar's reaction after becoming captain

Rohit Performance against Australia :

As per emerging reports, the tall hard-hitting all-rounder Shivam Dube is likely to join the Indian T20I squad ahead of the Rajkot T20I. Dube, who was a part of the T20 World Cup-winning squad for India last year, is included in India's T20I squad for the ongoing five-match series against England. 

It is understood that Dube will acquire Nitish Kumar's place in the squad as the latter has suffered an injury from which he hasn't fully recovered. The 31-year-old was previously left out of the squad since the selection committee had already made up their mind to zero down on Hardik and Nitish as their two frontline pace-bowling all founders. But Nitish's injury has opened doors for Dube and he could be someone who could play a key part for India in the ongoing T20I series.

See also: England set to make one change for Chennai T20I

A look at some of his recent performances

Dube featured in Mumbai's Ranji Trophy fixture against Jammu & Kashmir at the BKC Ground in Mumbai where his side suffered a shocking five-wicket defeat. In a match where most of their star performers (excluding Shardul) looked all at sea, Dube failed to open his account and bagged a pair being dismissed on 0 in both innings. 

Previously, Dube suffered a back injury which forced him out of action from the initial phase of the Ranji Trophy season. After his speedy recovery, Dube featured in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) and helped Mumbai lift the title under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer. Dube did not get the opportunity to bowl in the T20 World Cup last year but managed to leave some impact with the bat scoring 133 runs across eight innings which includes his top score of 34 against Bangladesh. His last international outing for India came during the Sri Lankan white-ball tour which ended in abject disappointment as he averaged only 13 and 11.33 in T20I and ODI series respectively. 

The Indian Cricket Team has had its own share of ups and downs. The Men in Blue have seen it all, be it ending the ICC title drought run or having a disastrous and whitewashed three-match home test series loss against the Kiwis.

But, regarding the ups, the shortest format gave scrumptious success and joy amongst the Indian cricket fanatics. With their 2nd ever ICC T20 World Cup triumph after a long gap, leading them to be the No. 1 team in the ICC T20I rankings, it deserves noteworthy praise.

That said, here's the list of the top three formidable victories of the Indian Cricket Team, the T20I edition.

After India’s big T20 World Cup win, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin praised head coach Rahul Dravid, calling him the key to the team’s success. On his YouTube channel, Ashwin shared the emotional moments that followed the victory.

Ashwin Shares His Favorite Memory

Ashwin’s story highlighted Dravid’s deep emotional connection to the team. His favorite memory was seeing Rahul Dravid hug the cup and cry.

“My moment was when Virat Kohli handed the cup to Rahul Dravid. I saw him hug the cup and cry. Rahul Dravid screamed and cried. I saw how much he enjoyed it. I felt that a lot,” Ashwin recalled.

Ashwin Highlights Dravid’s Behind-the-Scenes Efforts

Ashwin praised Dravid for his hard work behind the scenes. He talked about Dravid’s past as a captain and how he’s always been there for the team.

“I want to talk about a person who is special. In 2007, during the 50-over World Cup, India got knocked out. Rahul Dravid was the captain then. He didn’t captain the one-day team after that. He’s always been with the Indian team. When things go wrong, people immediately ask what Rahul Dravid is doing,” Ashwin said.

He noted the pressure Dravid faced, especially after past failures in ICC tournaments.

“I know what he’s been doing with this team for the past 2-3 years. I know how balanced he has been and how hard he’s worked to change the approach. I know how much he has given to each player. Even when he’s at home, he’s planning how to do things,” Ashwin added.

Dravid’s Impact on the Team

Dravid’s time as coach has led to noticeable changes in India’s game. The team is now more adaptable, resilient, and ready for new challenges. Ashwin credited much of this change to Dravid’s influence. Under Dravid’s coaching, India has become a strong team in all formats. They’ve shown they can handle tough targets, defend low scores, and perform under pressure.

Even though star players often get the spotlight, Dravid’s hard work behind the scenes has been crucial to India’s success. His careful planning, attention to detail, and belief in his players have helped the team reach the top of world cricket. India will begin their new cycle with coach Gautam Gambhir on July 27 against Sri Lanka after Dravid’s contract ends.

Outgoing batting coach Vikram Rathour from Team India recommended Rinku Singh’s inclusion in the Test squad. Rathour praised Rinku for his temperament, seeing him as a perfect fit for Test cricket.

During his time as Team India’s batting coach under Rahul Dravid’s guidance, Rathour closely watched Rinku’s progress. Despite Rinku’s success in white-ball cricket, particularly as a T20I finisher, Rathour believed he possessed the skills and technical prowess needed for Test cricket.

“One of the players to have moved up the ladder in the past two seasons is Rinku Singh, who has played two ODIs and 20 T20Is, but can’t be called a regular in the national side yet. He is a fantastic finisher in short-format cricket, but also averages 54.70 after 69 first-class innings,” Rathour told PTI, 

From IPL star to international debut

Rinku became well known during IPL 2023 and played his first international T20 matches against Ireland last year. He also started playing ODIs during the series against South Africa in December 2023.

Although Rinku didn’t secure a spot in Team India’s 15 member squad for the T20 World Cup 2024, he traveled as a reserve player, sparking disappointment among fans and experts. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar acknowledged that omitting Rinku was a tough decision for the committee.

Rathour’s vision for Rinku in Tests

Rathour highlighted that while Rinku has made a name for himself in T20Is, he envisioned the batter thriving in Test cricket as well.

“When I see him bat in nets, I can’t find any technical reasons why Rinku cannot be a successful Test batter,” Rathour said. “I understand he has made his name as a terrific finisher in T20 cricket, but if you look at his first-class record, he is averaging in high 50s.

“He is also blessed with a very calm temperament. So all these factors indicate that, if given an opportunity, he can develop into a Test cricketer.”

In his T20I 20 appearances, Rinku has scored 416 runs at a strike rate of 176.27, including two fifties. It remains to be seen if he will receive an opportunity in Test cricket in the future.

The world of cricket is never short of drama and surprises. In the latest twist, Australia’s star fast bowler, Mitchell Starc, has opened up about his exclusion from the Super 8 fixture against Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup 2024. Starc’s benching to make way for Ashton Agar was a controversial decision that sparked widespread debate among fans and experts alike.

Exclusion from the match against Afghanistan

The decision to bench Starc in the crucial Super 8 match against Afghanistan was surprising. The team management opted to bring in left-arm spinner Ashton Agar, hoping his spin would be more effective given the conditions.

See Also: BCCI overlooks Kohli, consults Hardik Pandya for Gambhir’s new role: Report

Ashton Agar’s performance in the match was commendable. He bowled economically, giving away just 17 runs in his four overs and successfully containing the Afghan batters during the middle overs. Despite his efforts, Australia failed to capitalize and ended up losing the match by 21 runs.

Australia’s exit

Australia’s early departure from the T20 World Cup were disappointing for fans and the team alike. Several factors contributed to this outcome, including strategic decisions, player performances, and perhaps a bit of bad luck. Analyzing the statistical performance of the team provides insight into what went wrong.

Mitchell Starc’s perspective

In a candid discussion on the WillowTalk podcast, Starc shared his thoughts on being left out of the playing XI. He explained that the decision was based on the pitch conditions and the effectiveness of spin bowling in previous matches at the venue.

“They saw previous games on that ground with spin playing a part and obviously Ash and the left-armer enticing them to make a change,” Starc said on the WillowTalk podcast.

Criticism of Pre-tournament seedings

Starc also voiced his criticism regarding the pre-tournament seedings. He argued that Australia’s position did not reflect their capabilities and affected their group stage matchups. Analyzing the seeding process and its impact on the tournament’s outcomes sheds light on potential areas for improvement.

Another point of contention was the scheduling of the matches. Australia’s schedule, which included late-night arrivals and early games, was far from ideal. These logistical issues likely impacted the players’ performance and preparation.

“We finished ahead of England and end up where we were pre-seeded as the second side. All of a sudden, you’re in a different group. We had the two night games and the third was a day game, so it wasn’t the best preparation. We had a delayed flight out of St Vincent, a 90-minute drive from the airport to the hotel in St Lucia, our players got in late by night and then a 10 o’clock toss,” he added.

Starc’s tournament performance

Despite the controversies, Starc’s performance in the tournament was a mix of highs and lows. He took five wickets in as many games, but his economy rate and average were not up to his usual standards.

Jasprit Bumrah and Smriti Mandhana were honored as the ICC Players of the Month for June. Bumrah, known for his pivotal role in India’s men’s team, earned the Men’s Player of the Month award following a standout performance at the T20 World Cup 2024, where he was also named Player of the Tournament.

During the tournament in the USA and the Caribbean, the 30 year old demonstrated exceptional consistency, claiming 15 wickets with an impressive average of 8.26 and an economy rate of 4.17.

Bumrah’s dominance in T20 World Cup 2024

Throughout the T20 World Cup, Bumrah showcased his skill, starting with a stellar 3-6 against Ireland and a match winning 3-14 vs Pakistan. His contribution continued with crucial wickets in the Super Eights and a decisive 2-12 in the semi-finals against England. In the final in Barbados, he maintained his form with figures of 2-18, helping India clinch the championship.

Expressing gratitude to his family and fellow nominees, Bumrah highlighted the significance of the honor.

“I am delighted to be named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for June. It’s a special honour for me following a memorable few weeks spent in the USA and West Indies. We have had a lot to celebrate as a team, and I’m delighted to be able to add this personal accolade to the list.

“I wish to congratulate my captain Rohit Sharma and Rahmanullah Gurbaz for their excellent performances in the same period, and I am humbled to have been chosen as the winner.

“Finally, I want to thank my family, all of my teammates and coaches as well as the fans who have voted for me. Their support pushes me to compete at the best of my ability in national colours.”

Mandhana’s breakthrough achievement

Smriti Mandhana, a key figure in India’s women’s team batting lineup, secured her first ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for June. Her achievement came after an outstanding series that included three ODIs and a Test match.

Mandhana played pivotal roles in India’s victories over South Africa, including impressive centuries in the ODIs and a crucial 149 in the Test match alongside Shafali Verma.

“I’m glad to be named ICC Women’s Player of the Month for the month of June. I’m really happy with the way I think the team has performed and I’m happy to contribute for us, winning the ODI and the Test series. Hopefully we can continue our form, and I can even further contribute to win matches for India.”

Reflecting on her performance, Mandhana emphasized her commitment to contributing further to the team’s success moving forward.

India’s T20 World Cup 2024 win marked the end of an era as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja retired from T20 cricket. Their coach, Rahul Dravid, also ended his tenure on a high note, finally achieving a world title.

After the celebrations, Rohit Sharma took to Instagram to write a heartfelt note. He praised Dravid for his efforts and highlighted how, despite his legendary status, Dravid was always approachable for the players.

Rohit Sharma’s heartfelt note

“You are an absolute stalwart of this game but left all of your accolades and achievements at the door and walked in as our coach and came on a level where we all felt comfortable enough to say just about anything to you. That is your gift, your humility and your love for this game even after all this time,” said the Indian captain.

Rohit shared a funny story in his note, mentioning how his wife always called Dravid his “work-wife.” Despite the joke, Rohit expressed pride in his relationship with the cricket legend.

“I have learnt so much from you and every memory will be cherished. My wife refers to you as my work wife and I’m lucky to get to call you that too,” Rohit Sharma added.

Rahul Dravid’s legacy

Even though Rahul Dravid had an incredible playing career, he never won an ICC trophy. Unlike Sachin Tendulkar, who won the ODI World Cup 2011, Dravid and many other legendary players missed out on a World Cup title. Rohit Sharma is happy he could achieve this for Dravid, as India won the T20 World Cup 2024.

“This was the only thing missing from your arsenal and I’m so happy that we got to achieve it together. Rahul bhai it has been an absolute privilege to get to call you my confidant, my coach and my friend,” Rohit Sharma concluded.

Indian cricket fans are looking forward to a new generation of players who can meet the high expectations set by Rohit Sharma and his teammates. They hope these players will bring even more success. The BCCI has not yet announced India’s new Head Coach.

David Warner has announced that he will be available to play for the Australian team in the Champions Trophy next year if selected. Warner retired from all formats of cricket after the T20 World Cup 2024, where he was the opening batsman for Australia. Following their exit in the Super 8 stage, many thought Warner had ended his international career.

He confirmed his retirement on Instagram but mentioned that he might return for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year if needed. Warner expressed his honor in representing Australia and said he would continue playing franchise cricket for a while. He also thanked his fans and teammates for their support.

Warner’s announcement and potential return

“Chapter closed!! It’s been an unbelievable experience to play at the highest level for such a long period. Australia was my team. The majority of my career was at the international level. It’s been an honour to be able to do this. 100+ games in all formats is my highlight. I want to say thanks to everyone out there who has made this possible. My wife and my girls, who sacrificed so much, thank you for all your support. No person will ever know what we’ve been through.”

“For all the cricket fans out there, I truly hope I have entertained you and changed cricket, especially tests, in a way where we scored a bit faster than others. We cannot do what we love without the fans, so thanks”.

“I will continue to play franchise cricket for a while, and I am also open to playing for Aus in the Champions trophy if selected. To the players and staff, thanks for putting up with me. No more what’s app junk, your ears are now going to be free of my voice. This team has had unbelievable success the Last few years and long may this continue. Pat cummins, Andrew old Mac and staff have got this,” said Warner.

Having retired from Test cricket earlier this year, Warner will now be working as a commentator for Fox Cricket.