Hardik Pandya’s Redemption- From Boos To Blessings
Two months ago, amidst the deafening boos of a packed Wankhede Stadium, Hardik Himanshu Pandya was facing one of the toughest times of his career. It felt like a scene straight out of a Bollywood movie. However, like any dramatic tale, Pandya’s story saw an incredible turnaround. Hardik Pandya endured a rollercoaster year. His tenure as captain of the Mumbai Indians during IPL 2024 was far from ideal. In his debut season as MI skipper, he struggled to lead the team to success and the Wankhede crowd made their disappointment known by booing him at the top of their lungs. However, Pandya’s fortunes changed dramatically during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. He emerged as a standout performer, playing a crucial role in India’s victorious campaign. His all-around brilliance, both with the bat and the ball, helped India clinch the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 title by defeating South Africa in the final. The same crowd that once jeered him at Wankhede now chanted his name, celebrating his remarkable comeback. During the victory celebrations at the Wankhede Stadium, Indian captain Rohit Sharma lauded Hardik for his heroics in the tournament, particularly his performance in the nerve-wracking final over of the championship match. “Hardik was bowling the final over for us. Hats off to him for bowling that last over. No matter how many runs you need, there is always immense pressure to bowl that over. But hats off to him,” said Rohit, acknowledging Pandya’s composure and skill under pressure. Throughout the tournament, Hardik Pandya delivered impactful performances, scoring crucial runs down the order and taking key wickets when the team needed them most. He finished the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with 144 runs at a strike rate exceeding 150 and claimed 11 wickets, showcasing his versatility and value to the team. The turnaround for Hardik Pandya within just two months is no less than a story of a so-called villain turning into a national hero. From facing boos at the Wankhede to becoming a World Cup hero, Hardik Pandya’s redemption is well and truly complete. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Virat Kohli’s Heartfelt Message to PM Narendra Modi Before Mumbai Victory Parade
Virat Kohli and his fellow team-mates from the Indian Cricket Team received a grand welcome from their passionate supporters and cricket fans on their arrival back to India post the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. After being stranded for three days in the Caribbean due to Hurricane Beryl, Rohit Sharma’s Team India finally made it home today. Air India’s special charter flight, dubbed Air India Champions 24 World Cup (AIC24WC), touched down in the national capital early in the morning. Despite the challenging weather conditions in Delhi, hundreds of Team India supporters gathered outside the airport, waving the national flag and holding special placards to greet the World Cup heroes. Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the Team India squad at his Delhi residence, engaging in memorable conversations with superstars like Kohli, Rohit, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant. Virat Kohli’s Special Message to PM Narendra Modi https://www.instagram.com/p/C8_ohdORG-n/?igsh=MTVoYXB5NWg1bnljZg%3D%3D&img_index=1 On Instagram, the former India skipper shared a heartfelt message for PM Modi. “What a great honour meeting our honourable prime minister shri narendra modi ji today @narendramodi. Thank you sir for inviting us to the prime minister’s residence,” wrote Kohli, who played a match-winning knock of 76 for India in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa. Kohli, Rohit, and the World Cup-winning team members wore Indian jerseys emblazoned with “Champions” during their visit to PM Modi’s Delhi residence. PM Modi’s Memorable Chat with the Champions Indian Prime Minister Modi posed for a photograph with Rohit Sharma’s Team India before engaging in a lively conversation with the players. “An excellent meeting with our Champions! Hosted the World Cup-winning team at 7, LKM, and had a memorable conversation on their experiences through the tournament,” PM Modi remarked. What’s Next for the World Cup Heroes? After meeting the Indian Prime Minister in Delhi, Team India is heading to Mumbai for an open bus roadshow, which will be followed by a felicitation ceremony at the Wankhede Stadium in the evening. The Sportz Planet Desk, Atharva Shetye
Indian Cricket Team To Celebrate T20 World Cup Triumph With A Victory Parade
The victorious Indian Cricket Team has finally kept their feet on their motherland post winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The celebrations have already begun in the country. The team met the honorable Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi, in Delhi earlier this morning. As the Indian Cricket Team landed, a massive crowd flocked around them at the Delhi airport to welcome the World Champions in style. Well, that’s not the only thing the men in blue have on their plates for today. The real celebration awaits in the evening. The Indian Cricket Team is all set to perform a victory parade in Mumbai at the Marine Drive, and a felicitation ceremony at the iconic Wankhede Stadium is on the cards to thank our cricketing superheroes who have brought the trophy home. Speaking of Victory Parades, it’s a cherished tradition for the Indian Cricket Team to thank their fans after World Cup wins. And why wouldn’t it be? Fans go absolutely wild in their support for the Indian team and their favorite stars. Whether it’s a regular bilateral series or an ICC tournament, the Indian Cricket Team always has immense backing. Thus, the victory parade creates the perfect opportunity for both cricketers and fans to celebrate the success together. About The Victory Parade The Indian Cricket Team – Victory Parade is all set to take place at Marine Drive, Mumbai, on the 4th of July, 2024. The celebrations are set to start at 5pm at the venue. The Indian Cricket Team will then enter their base, their fortress, the place where they lifted their last ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy back in 2011, at the Wankhede Stadium. The team will be felicitated by the BCCI officials for their glorious achievements at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Skipper Rohit Sharma Invites Crowds For The Victory Parade Our captain, Rohit Sharma, took to Twitter (or X) to invite the crowd to join in the celebration. Such celebrations have happened in the past as well. Let’s take a look back at the previous occasions when the Indian Cricket Team’s ICC trophy victories were marked by iconic celebrations. ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2011 The 2011 victory was very much special for both the team and the fans, as it was secured on home soil. On the night of the final, India faced Sri Lanka at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The moment captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni struck that iconic six into the crowd, the entire nation erupted in celebration. The streets were filled with enthusiastic fans who rejoiced as if they had personally contributed to the triumph. The atmosphere across the country was nothing short of a grand festival. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2007 The Indian team received a grand reception back home after winning the 2007 T20 World Cup trophy in South Africa. Led by Dhoni, India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan in a nail-biting final to claim the elusive trophy, which helped ease the pain of India’s disappointing exit from the ODI World Cup earlier that year. Following their memorable triumph, the Indian players were paraded in an open-top bus from the Mumbai airport to the Wankhede Stadium. The victory parade caused a complete traffic shutdown as thousands of fans thronged the streets of Mumbai to catch a glimpse of their World Cup heroes. The open-top bus was surrounded by jubilant fans as it traveled through the city. ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 1983 The first time the Indian Cricket Team won the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup back in 1983, they went to England as underdogs, led by Kapil Dev. Upon their return, the Honorable Prime Minister Indira Gandhi hosted a warm welcome for the victorious team. With Rohit Sharma and his team announcing their victory convoy from Nariman Point to Wankhede Stadium, fans are excited to join the celebratory display of the long-awaited ICC trophy. A jam-packed Marine Drive with another sea of blue is all set to welcome the Indian Cricket Team. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
2024 T20 World Cup: Tournament In Numbers
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 has come to a thrilling conclusion, leaving cricket fans worldwide buzzing with excitement. From breathtaking matches to unforgettable moments and of course, the Indian Cricket Team’s redemption to glory, this edition of the tournament has surely provided a spectacle like no other. It’s time to look into the standout statistics that defined this remarkable tournament and etched new records in the history of the game. Here are 20 must-know statistics from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. 7.09 The overall run rate for the tournament, marking the lowest in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history. The previous lowest was 7.43 in the 2021 edition held in the UAE. 517 Total sixes hit, making this the first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to surpass 500 sixes. The previous record was 405 in 2021. The balls-per-six ratio of 21.35 was the best ever, and the fours-to-sixes ratio of 1.86 was the lowest across all editions. 1 India became the first team to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup without losing a single game. They won all eight matches, with one group-stage game against Canada abandoned without a toss. 2 This edition, along with 2009, did not feature an individual century. The highest score in 2009 was Tillakaratne Dilshan’s unbeaten 96, while Nicholas Pooran’s 98 against Afghanistan was the highest in 2024. 19 Four-plus wicket hauls, the highest in any ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, surpassing the 14 recorded in 2021. 4.17 Jasprit Bumrah’s economy rate, the best for any bowler who delivered 100-plus balls in a single ICC Men’s T20 World Cup edition. The most Bumrah conceded in any match was 29 runs against Australia. 3 Difference between wickets taken and boundaries conceded by Jasprit Bumrah, who took 15 wickets and conceded only 12 boundaries, including two sixes, in 29.4 overs. 1 Bumrah became the first player to win the Player-of-the-Tournament award at an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup without scoring a run. He was out for a golden duck against Pakistan, his only batting appearance. In ODI World Cups, Glenn McGrath (2007) and Mitchell Starc (2015) achieved similar feats. 14 Number of dismissals by wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, comprising 13 catches and one stumping, a record for any player in an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. 17 Wickets taken by Arshdeep Singh and Fazalhaq Farooqi, the highest in a single ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, surpassing Wanindu Hasaranga’s 16 in 2021. 5 Instances of teams winning after scoring 120 or less in a full 20-over first innings, a significant increase from the single occurrence before 2024. 1 Rohit Sharma became the first to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup both as a player (2007) and as a captain (2024). Daren Sammy is the only other captain with two titles (2012 and 2016). 109.52% Increase in maiden overs compared to the previous highest. A total of 44 maidens were bowled in the 52 completed matches, accounting for 28.95% of the total maidens in ICC Men’s T20 World Cups. 25 Difference in balls taken for the two individual fifties in the final: Virat Kohli took 48 balls, and Heinrich Klaasen took 23 balls, with Klaasen’s being the fastest in an ICC tournament final and Kohli’s the slowest of his T20 career. 5-3 Afghanistan’s win-loss record. They bowled out opponents in all five wins, a record matched only by Australia in 2010. Afghanistan were also bowled out in all three losses. 0 Sixes hit in the match between New Zealand and Uganda, only the third instance of an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match without sixes (excluding shortened games). 4 Papua New Guinea and Oman ended the tournament without any points. Both lost all four matches, the most for any team in an edition without a win. 171 Runs scored by Rishabh Pant, the second-highest in an edition without a half-century. His highest score was 42 against Pakistan. Tristan Stubbs scored 165 runs, the fifth-highest in a T20 World Cup without a fifty. 96 Balls bowled by Mohammad Amir without conceding a six, making him the first to achieve this in two different editions. He previously bowled 139 balls without a six in 2010. 2 Fours hit by Virat Kohli in his first seven matches. He exceeded this tally in the final’s first over, hitting Marco Jansen for three fours. As we look back at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, it’s clear that this tournament will be remembered for its extraordinary performances and groundbreaking records. The players’ relentless pursuit of excellence and the nail-biting finishes have set a new benchmark for future editions. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
2024 T20 World Cup: India Ends 11 Year ICC Trophy Drought.
Chak De India! Well that’s what we have been hearing from the corner of every street, every house, every vehicle that passes by and of course from every Indian cricket fan. The Indian Cricket Team have successfully ended the 11 year ICC Trophy drought and 13 year World Cup drought by beating South Africa by 7 runs in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Virat Kohli showcased brilliance in his final T20 international appearance, contributing a commanding 76 runs from 59 balls. Reflecting on his farewell, Kohli emphasized, “It’s time for the next generation to take over. It was an open secret, and I would have announced it even if we had lost.“ The game’s momentum shifted dramatically during Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive innings of 52 runs off just 27 balls, posing a serious threat to India’s campaign. However, strategic interventions from Hardik Pandya and astute captaincy from Rohit Sharma, including a crucial over by Axar Patel, swung the momentum back in India’s favor. The match culminated in a tense finale, where Pandya’s nerve-wracking final over, defending 16 runs, secured India’s victory. This triumph marked India’s first ICC trophy since 2013 and their inaugural T20 World Cup win in the post-IPL era. The celebrations were a mix of relief and joy for Kohli, Rohit, and their teammates, potentially signaling the end of an era for these two stalwarts in T20 cricket. India’s batting was anchored by Virat Kohli’s composed innings, complemented by Axar Patel’s vital 47 runs from 31 balls, which took them to their highest total in an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final. The bowlers, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah and supported by timely contributions from Shivam Dube, maintained pressure on South Africa throughout their chase. Crucial moments included Bumrah’s pivotal return to the attack and Suryakumar Yadav’s sensational boundary catch off Pandya’s bowling, decisively turning the tide. Despite a shaky start, India recovered to post a formidable total of 176 for 7, courtesy of the partnership between Kohli and Axar. This victory not only secured India’s place in cricketing history but also provided a fitting farewell to head coach Rahul Dravid, concluding a memorable performance that will be cherished for years to come. The Sportz Planet,Atharva Shetye
Shri Dinesh Lad Nurturing Raw Talent Into Finished Product
Dronacharya awardee, Shri Dinesh Lad, graced The Sportz Planet SportSci Summit 2024, Season 1 with his presence at the Radisson Blu near Mumbai International Airport on June 22, 2024. Known for his deep passion for cricket and his role in shaping young talents, Mr. Lad’s humility and warmth resonated with everyone present. During his session, Shri Dinesh Lad warmly acknowledged the achievements of his star pupils, Rohit Sharma who were gearing up to represent India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 final and bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Mr. Lad credited their success to their tireless dedication and natural talent, emphasizing that his role as a coach was to guide and support them along their journey. A particularly touching moment came when Shri Lad fondly recalled convincing Rohit Sharma’s uncle to enroll him in his school, foreseeing Rohit’s future as a cricketing star. Assuring Rohit’s uncle about the fees, Mr. Lad’s belief in Rohit’s potential underscored his keen eye for talent and commitment to nurturing young cricketers. Click to find out about The Making Of The Hitman. Equally heartwarming was Shri Dinesh Lad’s gesture towards Shardul Thakur, who faced long daily commutes from Palghar to Borivali for training. Recognizing Shardul’s determination, Mr. Lad opened his home to Thakur, providing a supportive environment where he could focus entirely on improving his cricket skills without the stress of travel. With Shardul Thakur showcasing his clinical bowling display for India across various formats and Rohit Sharma prepared to lead India on the global stage, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 final became not just a display of Rohit’s skills but also a tribute to Shri Dinesh Lad’s mentorship and support. His dedication to nurturing talent continues to shape the future of Indian cricket, inspiring countless young cricketers to chase their dreams. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
2024 T20 World Cup: Player of the match in each ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Final
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 comes to its final chapter with India taking on South Africa at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. With both the star studded lineups ready to lock horns against each other fans are excited to see who will deliver the goods for his team on the big stage. The Indian Cricket Team is known to be a galaxy of stars with expectations of either of Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli or Hardik Pandya to win the Player Of The Match Award in the big final. On the other hand South Africa is brimming with talent with the likes of Aiden Markram, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs or Kagiso Rabada to deliver the goods and grab the Player Of The Match award alongside the prestigious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 trophy. Before the final showdown, let’s have a look at the Player Of The Match holders from the finals of the previous editions of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2007 – Irfan Pathan The veteran Indian fast bowling all-rounder, Irfan Pathan was all over India’s opponents, Pakistan in the final of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2007. The wicket at Johannesburg, South Africa felt like a paradise for Pathan as he went on dismantling Pakistan batting order claiming 3 wickets for 16 runs in his quota of 4 overs. India was able to defend 158. Irfan Pathan dismissed Pakistan Captain Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi and Yasir Arafat. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2009 – Shahid Afridi In the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2009, the Pakistani bowlers were all over the Sri Lankan batters as they restricted Sri Lanka to a modest 138. Shahid Afridi first grabbed the crucial wicket of Isuru Udana who just scored a single run. Afridi then charged down the track with the bat smashing an unbeaten 54 off 40 balls. His six took Pakistan over the line to lift the trophy. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2010 – Craig Kieswetter Craig Kieswetter played a memorable innings with a brisk 49-ball 63 in a crucial match. Partnering with Kevin Pietersen who scored 47 runs, Kieswetter forged a game-changing 111-run partnership. The English wicket-keeper’s innings included seven fours and two sixes, leading England to chase down the target of 148 runs with 18 balls remaining. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2012 – Marlon Samuels Marlon Samuels delivered an iconic performance during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2012 final against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Despite West Indies losing two early wickets, Samuels took charge and played a crucial innings, scoring 78 runs off 56 balls. His contribution helped West Indies reach a total of 137/6 in their innings. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2014 – Kumar Sangakkara Sri Lanka played against India in the final of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2014.While chasing 131, Kumar Sangakkara smashed an unbeaten 52 off 35 to guide Sri Lanka to the illustrious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2016 – Marlon Samuels Marlon Samuels clinched his second Player of the Match award in a World Cup final during the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2016, against England. His standout performance was crucial in the West Indies’ victorious campaign, marking their second title triumph. Samuels played a pivotal role, guiding his team with an unbeaten 85 runs off 66 balls, featuring nine boundaries and a couple of sixes. His innings was hailed as a pivotal resurrection effort, helping the Windies stage a remarkable comeback in the match. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 – Mitchell Marsh Australia claimed their first-ever T20 World Cup title by defeating their Trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand in the final held at Dubai. Mitchell Marsh, the current Australian T20 captain, was named Player of the Match for his decisive innings. New Zealand set a competitive total of 172 runs in their 20 overs. Australia faced an early setback when Aaron Finch was dismissed cheaply. However, Mitchell Marsh and David Warner counterattacked, forging a crucial 92-run partnership that laid the groundwork for their chase. Marsh took charge, remaining unbeaten on 77 runs off just 50 deliveries, featuring six boundaries and four sixes. After Warner’s departure, Glenn Maxwell accelerated with a quickfire 28 runs off 18 balls. Australia successfully chased down the target with seven deliveries to spare, securing their historic victory in the tournament. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 – Sam Curran In the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 final against Pakistan, English all-rounder Sam Curran played a pivotal role by taking three key wickets, which helped restrict Pakistan to a below-par score. Despite facing challenges from Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack, England managed to successfully chase down the target of 138 runs with an over to spare. Well it is going to be interesting to see who is awarded with the Player Of The Match in the Final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
2024 T20 World Cup Final: India vs South Africa Head-To-Head
India and South Africa have emerged as the two finalists of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The Men in Blue secured their spot in the ultimate game with a convincing win over England in the semi-finals. This marks the third consecutive ICC tournament final for the Rohit Sharma-led team. Throughout the tournament, India has been dominant, winning all eight of their matches. In their latest victory, India overcame the ghosts of the 2022 edition by defeating the Jos Buttler-led England by 68 runs. Key contributions came from Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav, who helped India reach a total of 171 runs. The bowling duo of Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav then combined for six wickets, ensuring a comprehensive win. India now sets its sights on reclaiming the T20 World Cup trophy, which they last won in 2007. The highly-anticipated ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 final will take place at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on June 29. South Africa, also unbeaten in this ICC event, secured their place in the final with a dominant nine-wicket win over Afghanistan in the semi-finals. This will be the Proteas’ first-ever appearance in a T20 World Cup final. As they prepare to face the formidable Indian side led by Rohit Sharma, it will be intriguing to see if they can overcome their opponents and claim the ultimate prize. SA vs IND Head To Head (Past 7 Matches) 2023 – India won by 106 runs2023 – India won by 5 wickets2022 – South Africa won by 5 wickets2022 – South Africa won by 49 runs2022 – India won by 16 runs2022 – India won by 8 wickets SA vs IND record in Kensington Oval, Barbados India and South Africa will face off against each other for the very first time at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, but the two sides have faced different oppositions at the venue, which has hosted several T20Is so far. Here is a look at the T20I stats from the venue: Cricket at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados STAT VALUE Matches 32 Won Batting 1st 19 Won Batting 2nd 11 No Results 2 Highest Total 224/5 by West Indies vs England in 2022 Lowest Total 80 All Out by Afghanistan vs South Africa in 2010 Average 1st Innings Score 153 Highest Successful Chase 172/6 in 18.1 overs by West Indies vs England in 2023 Lowest Total Defended 139/7 by South Africa vs Afghanistan in 2010 Highest Individual Score Rovman Powell (West Indies) – 107 off 53 balls vs Zimbabwe in 2010 Best Bowling Figures Jason Holder (West Indies) – 5 for 27 in 4 overs vs England in 2022 Total Sixes 411 sixes Total Fours 643 fours Total Hundreds 1 hundred Total Fifties 31 fifties India Record in Barbados INDIA AT BARBADOS STAT VALUE Played 3 Won 1 Lost 2 Won Batting First 1 Won Chasing 0 Highest Total 181 Lowest Total 135 The Indian Cricket Team’s record in Barbados shows a mixed performance over the three matches they have played. Out of these three encounters, India has managed to secure only one victory while facing defeat in the other two matches. Interestingly, their solitary win came while batting first, whereas they have not yet succeeded in chasing a target at this venue. The team’s highest total in Barbados stands at 181 runs, while their lowest total is 135 runs. These figures suggest a variation in their batting performances, reflecting both potential and inconsistency. Considering this record, it can be concluded that India’s performance in Barbados has not been particularly strong. Winning only one out of three matches, especially without any successful chases, points to challenges the team faces on this ground. The fact that their victories are limited and their ability to chase targets is yet unproven in Barbados highlights areas for improvement. For a team with India’s caliber and global standing, a better win-loss ratio and more consistent performances would be expected. Hence, the current record does not reflect the high standards typically associated with Indian cricket. South Africa Record in Barbados SOUTH AFRICA AT BARBADOS STAT VALUE Played 3 Won 2 Lost 1 Won Batting First 2 Won Chasing 0 Highest Total 170 Lowest Total 129 The South African cricket team’s record at Barbados showcases a relatively strong performance over the three matches they have contested. South Africa has won two out of these three encounters, demonstrating their ability to adapt and succeed at this venue. Both of their victories came while batting first, while they have not yet managed to secure a win when chasing a target. The team’s highest total in Barbados is 170 runs, while their lowest total is 129 runs. This indicates a level of consistency in their batting performances, allowing them to post competitive scores. Assessing this record, it can be concluded that South Africa’s performance in Barbados has been commendable. Winning two out of three matches and consistently performing well while batting first indicates a solid strategy and effective execution. Although they have not yet won a match while chasing, their overall record at this venue is positive and reflects their capability to dominate in challenging conditions. Compared to India’s record, South Africa’s performance in Barbados appears stronger, showcasing their adaptability and resilience on this ground. Pitch Report The pitch at Kensington Oval in Barbados is anticipated to provide early seam movement, posing a challenge for batsmen to find their rhythm initially. Fast bowlers should also find extra bounce advantageous on this surface. South Africa vs India Weather Forecast Bridgetown, Barbados may experience thunderstorms during the epic final on June 29. There is a 72% chance of precipitation. Temperatures are expected to range between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels not exceeding 85%. Winds are anticipated to blow at speeds of 30 to 50 km/h. The fans and fanatics are anticipating a mouth watering contest as India takes on South Africa in the Finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. They also expect
2024 T20 World Cup: India aims to end 11-year ICC trophy drought.
The Indian fans have started dreaming of an ICC trophy yet again. Rohit Sharma-led Indian Cricket Team has marched into the finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 by beating former Champions, England by 68 runs. Axar Patel, the lead destroyer with the ball, broke the back of England’s batting with three wickets. Bappu, as he is fondly called, went on to dismiss Jos Buttler (23 off 15), Jonny Bairstow for a duck (0 off 3) and Moeen Ali (8 off 10). Later Liam Livingstone getting run out almost halfway down the track by Kuldeep Yadav on Axar Patel’s bowling summed up England’s day at the office. The Indian Cricket Team is now all set to take on South Africa in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Before that, let’s relive the Indian Cricket Team’s performances since they lifted their last ICC trophy back in 2013. INDIA’S QUEST FOR GLORY IN ICC FINALS OVER THE YEARS TOURNAMENT FIXTURE RESULT VENUE ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2014 IND vs SL SL won by 6 wickets Dhaka ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2017 IND VS PAK PAK won by 180 runs London ICC Men’s World Test Championship 2021 IND vs NZ NZ won by 8 wickets Southampton ICC Men’s World Test Championship 2023 IND vs AUS AUS won by 209 runs London ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 IND vs AUS AUS won by 6 wickets Ahmedabad ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2014 In the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2014, India faced Sri Lanka at Dhaka. Despite Virat Kohli’s valiant effort, scoring 77 runs off 58 balls, India could only manage 130/4 in their 20 overs. Sri Lanka chased down the target with ease, winning by 6 wickets with 13 balls to spare. This victory marked Sri Lanka’s first T20 World Cup win, while India’s quest for another ICC trophy was thwarted despite their strong performance throughout the tournament. ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2017 India squared off against arch-rivals Pakistan in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2017 final in London. Pakistan set a daunting total of 338/4, thanks to Fakhar Zaman’s scintillating century. India’s batting line-up crumbled under pressure, with only Hardik Pandya showing resistance with a quickfire 76. Pakistan won convincingly by 180 runs, delivering a stunning performance and claiming their first Champions Trophy title. ICC Men’s World Test Championship 2021 In the inaugural ICC Men’s World Test Championship final in 2021, India took on New Zealand in Southampton. After a rain-affected match, New Zealand chased down a target of 139 with relative ease, securing an 8-wicket victory. Kyle Jamieson was the standout player, taking seven wickets in the match, including crucial dismissals of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in both innings. This victory marked New Zealand’s first ICC tournament win since the 2000 ICC Knock-Out Trophy. ICC Men’s World Test Championship 2023 The ICC Men’s World Test Championship 2023 final saw India facing Australia at The Oval in London. Australia set a challenging total and won by 209 runs. Travis Head and Steve Smith’s brilliant centuries in the first innings laid the foundation for Australia. India’s batting faltered in both innings, with only Ajinkya Rahane showing some fight in the second innings. Australia’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Pat Cummins, ensured their comprehensive victory. ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 In the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final held in Ahmedabad, India met Australia. Australia, chasing 241 set by India, won by 6 wickets. Travis Head was once again a key player, scoring a match-winning century. Despite Rohit Sharma’s half-century in the first innings, India struggled to build significant partnerships, and Australia’s bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc, kept the pressure on. This win added another World Cup trophy to Australia’s illustrious cabinet. The Indian Cricket Team once again has made it to an ICC event final. This time the men in blue are up against South Africa. Fans and players alike are hoping to finally break the jinx and add another prestigious ICC trophy to their cabinet. With a mix of experienced and young talent, the Indian Cricket Team aims to overcome past setbacks and emerge victorious on the grand stage. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
T20 World Cup: Will Guyana Witness England Giving ‘Lagaan’ To Team India?
Over two decades have passed. Generations have changed hands. However, since 2001, every time India and England lock horns on the cricket pitch, the word ‘Lagaan’ rings in special memories. Did the images of Aamir Khan hitting the six off the last ball, coincide with your thoughts? We don’t blame you if it does. A product of the Aamir Khan Productions, the movie was a masterclass, with cricket, in the background. The movie depicts how a team of 11 villagers from Champaner took on the arrogant British Indian Army officers and ended up defeating them. Also Read: T20 World Cup: How Does The ICC Make Money? On Thursday, in Guyana, Rohit Sharma led Team India has the golden opportunity to do Lagaan, once more against England. The occasion is the second semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The winner earns a spot in the final, while the loser goes home. The stakes are high, if not higher, like the last time, these two teams last met in a T20 World Cup fixture in Adelaide in 2022. Back then, England hammered India by 10 wickets. Jos Buttler-led-side also went on to lift the T20 World Cup in Australia. The war of words has already begun. Former England skipper Michael Atherton believes India doesn’t stand a chance in the semi-final. “Nasser thinks India is not good enough. And I think England will beat India in Guyana and South Africa will be too good for Afghanistan so it will be a South Africa versus England final.” England has emerged as a strong contender, but their passage into the Super 8s wasn’t smooth. They lost to Australia in the group stage and South Africa in Super 8s. This shows that England is vulnerable, and there lies India’s chance of winning the semi-final. On the contrary, India is yet to be beaten in the tournament. The Blues have registered six straight wins – three in the group stage, and three in the Super 8s. Their most famous win in the tournament came against arch-rivals Pakistan. England vs India – Head-to-Head in T20Is India and England have taken on each other 23 times in T20Is. The Blues lead the tally with 12 wins, while England has emerged victorious 11 times. England has also won two out of the last three T20Is played against India. In T20 World Cups, both teams have faced each other four times. Both India and England share honors with two matches apiece. Come June 27th, the saying – sharing is caring would be thrown out of the window. Both India and England would look to outclass the other. Is this time for India’s revenge and take full Lagaan from England or will Jos Buttler and Co. aggravate the past wounds?
