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.

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.

India’s T20 World Cup victory in 2024 were a triumph of skill, strategy, and sheer determination. Among the many highlights of the tournament, one moment stood out: Suryakumar Yadav’s stunning catch to dismiss David Miller in the final. Fielding, often an underrated aspect of cricket, played a crucial role in this victory, exemplifying the saying that “catches win matches.”

The crucial moment

With South Africa needing 16 runs from the final over, the pressure was palpable. The crowd at the stadium and millions of viewers around the world held their breath. India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, turned to Hardik Pandya to bowl the decisive over, hoping his experience and nerve would see India through.

See Also: Rohit Sharma invites fans to join India’s victory parade in Mumbai; Check full schedule

Suryakumar Yadav’s stunning catch

Hardik Pandya bowled a wide-ish full toss that David Miller struck powerfully down the park. The ball seemed destined to clear the boundary, but Suryakumar Yadav had other plans. He leaped into action, catching the ball mid-air with remarkable precision. As his momentum carried him out of play, Surya had the presence of mind to release the ball back into the air, find his balance, and jump back inside the ropes to complete the catch. This jaw-dropping effort sent Miller back to the dugout and gave India a massive advantage in the dying moments of the game.

Impact on the game

The dismissal of David Miller was a turning point. South Africa, just moments away from a potential victory, found themselves reeling from the blow. Suryakumar’s catch shifted the momentum entirely, and India went on to win the match by 7 runs, securing their place as T20 World Cup champions.

ICC recognition

The ICC recognized Suryakumar Yadav’s catch as one of the best in the T20 World Cup 2024. This acknowledgment places his effort alongside other incredible catches, highlighting its significance in the context of the tournament.

Other memorable catches

Among the best catches of the tournament were Axar Patel’s one-handed stunner to dismiss Mitchell Marsh, Gulbadin Naib’s spectacular grab, Roston Chase’s diving effort, Steven Taylor’s wonderful catch against Pakistan, and Aiden Markram’s backward dive. Each of these catches had its moment of glory, but Suryakumar’s effort in the final stands out due to its timing and impact.

Player reactions

Suryakumar Yadav expressed his joy and gratitude in post-match interviews, acknowledging the team effort that led to their victory. Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya also praised Surya’s catch, emphasizing its significance in their win. The team celebrated this moment, understanding its pivotal role in their triumph.

Suryakumar Yadav’s catch will be remembered as one of the defining moments in T20 World Cup history. Comparable to other famous catches in World Cup history, this moment will be etched in the memories of cricket fans for years to come.

Players from four countries have been named in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 Team of the Tournament. Champions India have six players on the team, including captain Rohit Sharma and Player of the Tournament Jasprit Bumrah. Three Afghan players also made the team after their impressive run to the semi-finals. The selection panel included commentators Harsha Bhogle, Ian Bishop, Kass Naidoo, and ICC General Manager of Cricket Wasim Khan.

India finally ended their ICC trophy drought on Saturday by defeating South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 final in Bridgetown. Before this, India’s last ICC title win was in 2013, with many heartbreaks in between.

Rohit Sharma, in his third consecutive ICC final as captain, finally got a different result and did not have to settle for second place.

After the final, the ICC announced their team of the tournament, featuring six Indian players. Rohit Sharma was an obvious choice to open, alongside Afghan star Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Rohit made a huge impact, scoring 257 runs with a 36.71 average and a 156.7 strike rate, including three half-centuries. Gurbaz also performed well, scoring 281 runs with a 35.12 average and a 124.33 strike rate, and three fifties.

Nicholas Pooran was picked for the no. 3 spot, followed by India’s Suryakumar Yadav and Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis. Hardik Pandya, who proved his critics wrong, was at no. 6, with Axar Patel at no. 7. The bowlers included Rashid Khan, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Anrich Nortje as the 12th man.

ICC team of the tournament for the T20 World Cup 2024:

Openers: Rohit Sharma, Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Top order: Nicholas Pooran, Suryakumar Yadav

All-rounders: Marcus Stoinis, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel

Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Fazalhaq Farooqi

12th man: Anrich Nortje

India defended a target of 177 runs, restricting South Africa to 169/8 in 20 overs and winning the final by seven runs. Hardik Pandya took three wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh had figures of 2/18 and 2/20, respectively. Earlier, Virat Kohli scored 76 runs off 59 balls, helping India post 176/7 in 20 overs.

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