India defeated South Africa by seven runs in the T20 World Cup 2024 final to pocket their second world title in the shortest format.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an effort to individually call Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Rahul Dravid to congratulate them after the Men in Blue conquered the universe when they defeated South Africa by seven runs in the final of the T20 World Cup 2024 on Saturday. PM Modi’s calls came after both Rohit and Virat announced their retirements from the shortest format of the game soon after glory in Barbados. On the other hand, it was also Dravid’s farewell game as India’s head coach.
Kohli, who was an upcoming cricketer 17 years ago, made his first fifty of this tournament in the final – a classy 76 off 59 balls with six fours and two sixes that carried India to a competitive 176/7. Then the Indian bowlers, led by Arshdeep Singh (2/20) and Jasprit Bumrah (2/18), worked their magic as they did throughout this tournament, limiting South Africa to 169/8.
Just like any other fan in the country, Modi told Kohli that T20 cricket will miss the batting stalwart. “Dear @imVkohli, Glad to have spoken to you. Like the innings in the Finals, you have anchored Indian batting splendidly. You’ve shone in all forms of the game. T20 Cricket will miss you but I am confident you’ll continue to motivate the new generation of players,” he said.
On the other hand, Rohit became the second Indian captain to win a T20 World Cup and third overall to win a World Cup (ODI & T20I) for the Men in Blue. “Dear @ImRo45, You are excellence personified. Your aggressive mindset, batting and captaincy has given a new dimension to the Indian team. Your T20 career will be remembered fondly. Delighted to have spoken to you earlier today,” he added.
For Dravid, he will go with his head held high. In fact, it was Dravid’s first senior men’s World Cup trophy in three attempts. He was a part of the playing XI when India lost to Australia in the 2003 final. 20 years later, Dravid was the head coach of the Indian team when India lost to Australia at home in the final.
“Rahul Dravid’s incredible coaching journey has shaped the success of Indian cricket. His unwavering dedication, strategic insights and nurturing the right talent have transformed the team. India is grateful to him for his contributions and for inspiring generations. We are happy to see him lift the World Cup. Happy to have congratulated him,” Modi said.
