New Delhi, July 5 (UNI) In an atmosphere thick with anticipation and pride, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated India’s T20 World Cup triumph by hosting a breakfast for the victorious team on Thursday at his official residence.
The gathering was not just a formal recognition but a heartfelt celebration of resilience, determination, and sheer brilliance.
The players shared personal stories and highlights from their arduous journey. Among the tales of grit were Hardik Pandya’s dramatic redemption, Suryakumar Yadav’s breathtaking catch, and Rohit Sharma’s exuberant celebrations, each story a testament to the indomitable spirit of the team.
India clinched their second T20 World Cup title in a final that had fans on the edge of their seats. They triumphed over South Africa by a narrow seven-run margin, a victory that came 17 years after their historic win in the inaugural edition in 2007.
Rohit Sharma, captain of the Indian cricket team, reflected on this long journey back to the pinnacle of T20 cricket. He admitted that in 2007, he had naively thought winning the World Cup was easy. Over the years, with many tournaments slipping through their fingers, the realization of the true challenge set in.
“In 2007, I thought winning the World Cup was easy. But many tournaments have passed since then without a win. Leading this team, which was hungry and determined, was special. Despite numerous challenges, including poor playing conditions in the USA, the players remained focused on lifting the trophy,” he said.
The final was a showcase of collective effort and individual brilliance. Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a crucial fifty, setting a solid foundation. As the match approached its climax, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Hardik Pandya delivered spellbinding bowling performances, sealing the win in the closing moments. This dramatic victory ended India’s 11-year wait for an ICC title, marking a significant milestone in their cricketing journey.
The Prime Minister’s interaction with the team was filled with moments of reflection and joy, capturing the essence of a journey that brought the World Cup back to India. The players’ stories, each brimming with emotion and triumph, painted a vivid picture of a team that refused to give up, no matter the odds.