Retiring Kohli inspires India to T20 cricket World Cup triumph
INDIA WON THE T20 WORLD CUP title in dramatic and emotional fashion with Virat Kohli starring in a thrilling seven-run victory over South Africa at Kensington Oval last Saturday (June 29).
Kohli, who later announced his retirement from T20 internationals, steadied the India innings with his fine 76 taking them to a strong 176-7.
When Heinrich Klaasen blasted a superb 52 from 27 balls, it looked as though South Africa were closing in on victory but they were halted by some outstanding Indian bowling and catching at the end.
South Africa ended on 169-8 with Hardik Pandya taking 3-20 for India another reminder of his outstanding ability, particularly in ‘death bowling’.
The win is the second T20 World Cup title for India following their triumph in the first edition in 2007 and it also ends their 11-year wait for a major title going back to the 2013 Champions Trophy.
But while the team and their huge travelling army of fans celebrated in Barbados, the win also marked the end of an era with skipper Rohit Sharma also calling it a day for the shortest format of the international game and coach Rahul Dravid having already announced his departure.
It was a sweet farewell for veteran Kohli who had struggled in the tournament, coming into the final with an average of just 10.7. However, he delivered his best innings at the perfect moment with his balanced batting ensuring India won the title after an unbeaten tournament.
Kohli’s asssured display was just what was needed for India who had slipped to 34 for three after Sharma won the toss and opted to bat.
“I am so proud to get the runs for the team the day it mattered most,” said Kohli.
For Rohit the victory was the culmination of strong efforts and near-misses in recent years.
“It is very hard to sum up what we have been through for three or four years. There has been a lot behind the scenes. So winning this game isn’t just about what we did today, it’s about those years, it’s all that hard work.”