T20 World Cup 2024: “My heart rate was up!” says Dhoni after India wins the final
Xtra Time Web Desk: In a thrilling final held at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, on Saturday, June 28, India clinched their second T20 World Cup title by defeating South Africa by seven runs. The historic victory sparked celebrations across the nation, with legendary Indian captain MS Dhoni leading the congratulatory messages.
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India, batting first, posted a competitive score of 176/7 in their 20 overs. South Africa, despite a valiant effort, could only manage 169/8 in their allotted 20 overs, falling just short of the target.
The final saw several pivotal moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Heinrich Klaasen's explosive 52 off 27 balls, including a devastating 15th over where he hit Axar Patel for 24 runs, seemed to tilt the balance in South Africa's favor. However, the Indian bowlers rose to the occasion.
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Following the dramatic win, MS Dhoni expressed his excitement and pride in a heartfelt Instagram post. "My heart rate was up, well done on being calm, having the self-belief and doing what you guys did. From all the Indians back home and everywhere in the world, a big thank you for bringing the World Cup home. CONGRATULATIONS," wrote Dhoni, commending the team for their composure under pressure.
Jasprit Bumrah's economical third over, conceding just four runs, and Hardik Pandya's crucial dismissal of Klaasen, brought India back into contention. South Africa needed 30 runs from the last 30 balls, but Bumrah and Pandya's disciplined bowling reduced the target to 20 from the last two overs.
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Arshdeep Singh's brilliant second-last over, giving away only four runs, set the stage for a nail-biting finish. In the final over, Pandya's decisive first-ball wicket of David Miller, thanks to a stunning catch by Suryakumar Yadav, sealed the victory. Pandya's nerve held firm as he successfully defended the remaining 15 runs, securing India's triumph.
The entire nation joined MS Dhoni in celebrating this monumental achievement, applauding the Men in Blue for their skill, determination, and resilience that led to this glorious victory.
