Suryakumar Yadav vs Hardik Pandya: A Captaincy Tug-Of-War
The race to take over the reins from Rohit Sharma as Indian Cricket Team’s T20 Captain has taken an unexpected turn, with Suryakumar Yadav now emerging as a strong contender. For the past two years, it seemed almost certain that Hardik Pandya would be promoted to the role. Hardik has led India in T20 matches during Rohit’s absences since the 2022 T20 World Cup. He has also been captaining IPL teams like Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians for the last three years. As India’s vice-captain and a star performer in the 2024 T20 World Cup, Hardik seemed the obvious choice. However, things have changed with Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as head coach. Suryakumar Yadav’s candidacy is now being seriously considered. The decision will be announced along with the squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series, which includes three ODIs and T20Is. This announcement will be crucial, as it will determine who will lead India when they defend their T20 World Cup title on home soil in 2026. Player Matches Played As T20I Captain Matches Won As T20I Captain Matches Lost As T20I Captain Win Percentage Matches Played As IPL Captain Matches Won As IPL Captain Matches Lost As IPL Captain Win Percentage Hardik Pandya 16 10 5 62.50% 45 26 19 57.7% Suryakumar Yadav 7 5 2 71.42% 1 1 0 100% Hardik Pandya’s Strengths Hardik’s extensive experience as vice-captain and his role as a regular IPL captain make him a strong candidate. He is one of only four Indian captains to win the IPL and narrowly missed winning a second title in 2023. Hardik Pandya’s Weaknesses Despite his success with Gujarat Titans, Hardik had a disappointing season with Mumbai Indians in 2024, where the team finished last. Additionally, his need for regular rest to manage his workload could be a drawback for a permanent captaincy role. Suryakumar Yadav’s Strengths Suryakumar Yadav is one of the world’s best T20 batters. As India transitions after the retirements of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, Suryakumar stands out as a guaranteed starter in the shortest format, making him a strong candidate for captaincy. Suryakumar Yadav’s Weaknesses Suryakumar’s lack of captaincy experience is a major concern. He has only captained an IPL team once, and his stint as Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy captain in 2015 ended poorly when he resigned mid-season. Who is the Better Candidate for India’s T20I Captaincy? Based on conventional logic, Hardik Pandya seems the clear choice due to his experience as vice-captain and IPL captain. Historically, Indian cricket has preferred promoting the vice-captain to the captaincy role for continuity. If tradition holds, Hardik’s appointment should be straightforward. However, it’s important to note that exceptions have been made in the past, such as when MS Dhoni was chosen over Yuvraj Singh and Virender Sehwag for the 2007 T20 World Cup captaincy. If Suryakumar Yadav is appointed captain, it will likely be influenced by head coach Gautam Gambhir, who has long believed in his leadership potential. Gambhir made Suryakumar vice-captain of Kolkata Knight Riders back in 2015, recognizing his potential even before he became an IPL star. There’s also a case to be made that Hardik might perform better without the pressures of captaincy. Throughout his tenure as captain, whether for India or in the IPL, there has been criticism that he hasn’t maximized his own potential, particularly in terms of his batting style and bowling decisions. Ultimately, the decision will shape India’s strategy and leadership as they look ahead to defending their T20 World Cup title in 2026. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Not Hardik, Suryakumar Yadav To Be Named Indian Cricket Team’s T20I Captain
Suryakumar Yadav is set to be appointed as Indian Cricket Team’s new T20I captain, succeeding Hardik Pandya, the current vice-captain for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. Suryakumar will take over from Rohit Sharma, who recently retired from T20Is, along with Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja, after leading India to a triumphant victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the Caribbean last month. HARDIK ON THE HELM Despite Hardik’s experience as a captain—having led India in three ODIs and 16 T20Is, and also captaining Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians in the IPL—fitness issues and workload management have been factors against him. Since the beginning of 2022, Hardik has played in only 46 of India’s 79 T20Is. SURYA’S SUCCESSFUL CAPTAINCY RECORD On the other hand, Suryakumar has a solid track record in leadership. He has captained Mumbai in domestic cricket and recently led India to a 4-1 series win against Australia in the T20I series last November, followed by a 1-1 draw in South Africa. His consistent performances have made him a key player in India’s T20I squad. WHO IS A BETTER CAPTAIN? A LEADERSHIP COMPARISON NAME GAMES WINS LOSSES TIED / NR WIN PERCENTAGE Hardik Pandya 16 10 5 1 62.50% Suryakumar Yadav 7 5 2 0 71.43% INDIA’S 1 CAPTAIN IDEOLOGY As per a BCCI source, “Hardik Pandya was India’s T20 vice-captain under Rohit Sharma. He is completely fit and available for the three-match T20I series and was supposed to lead the side but there is a very strong feeling that SKY would be the potential leader not only for the Sri Lanka series but till the 2026 World Cup,” The T20Is in Sri Lanka will also mark the beginning of Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as India’s new coach, taking over from Rahul Dravid after the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. This series is seen as a crucial step towards preparing for the next ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which India will co-host in 2026. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Morne Morkel In Contention For India’s Bowling Coach Role
Former South African pacer Morne Morkel is reportedly in the running to become India’s new bowling coach, as suggested by Gautam Gambhir, the recently appointed head coach of the Indian team. Morkel, who has a wealth of coaching experience, previously served as the coach of the Pakistan team during last year’s ICC Men’s ODI World Cup in India but resigned months before his contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was set to expire. Gambhir’s Recommendation to BCCI Gambhir is understood to have approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider Morkel for the bowling coach position. Morkel, who played 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is between 2006 and 2018, has already had some discussions with the BCCI about the role. Currently residing in Australia, Morkel has built a strong reputation as an effective coach both internationally and in the IPL. Past Collaborations in IPL Gambhir and Morkel have previously worked together at the Lucknow Super Giants during the Indian Premier League (IPL), where Gambhir served as a mentor and Morkel as the bowling coach. Even after Gambhir left to join the Kolkata Knight Riders and head coach Andy Flower moved to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Morkel continued under the new head coach Justin Langer. Morkel’s Coaching Credentials At 39 years old and having retired from international cricket in 2018, Morkel remains well-versed in the latest techniques of the game. Gambhir, known for collaborating with individuals he is comfortable with, is believed to be keen on having Morkel on his coaching team. Other Candidates for the Position Other candidates linked to the bowling coach position include Lakshmipathy Balaji, Zaheer Khan and Vinay Kumar. While the BCCI has yet to make a final decision, it is expected that a conclusion will be reached soon. One consideration is Morkel’s young family and the extensive travel required for the India job. Morkel lives in the Seaforth suburb of northern Sydney with his wife Roz Kelly, a sports presenter on Channel 9, and their two children. Potential Replacement for Paras Mhambrey If appointed, Morkel would replace Paras Mhambrey, who has excelled in the role over the past three years under head coach Rahul Dravid. Gambhir has also recommended Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate for other coaching positions, and the BCCI is believed to be keen on retaining fielding coach T Dilip from the outgoing Dravid regime. The cricketing community awaits the BCCI’s final decision on this key coaching position, with Morkel emerging as a strong contender to join Gambhir’s team. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
India Unlikely to Travel to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Will Ask ICC To Shift Matches In Sri Lanka Or In Dubai
The Indian Cricket Team is unlikely to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Instead, they plan to ask the International Cricket Council (ICC) to arrange their matches in Sri Lanka or Dubai, according to a BCCI source who spoke with ANI. The ICC Champions Trophy is set to be held in Pakistan from February to March 2025. India hasn’t played in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup because of the strained relationship between the two countries. The last time the two nations played a bilateral series was in India from December 2012 to January 2013. Since then, India and Pakistan have only faced each other in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup. Given the ongoing tensions, there has been a lot of uncertainty about whether India would participate in the upcoming event. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suggested that India play all its matches in one city, with Lahore being chosen as the venue, according to ESPNcricinfo. However, the Indian board is not keen on traveling to Pakistan. A BCCI source told ANI, “India will not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. Will tell ICC to hold its matches in Dubai or Sri Lanka.” In May, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla mentioned that the Indian team would only go to Pakistan if the central government permitted it. He told ANI, “In the case of the Champion Trophy, we will do whatever the Government of India will tell us to do. We send our team only when the Government of India permits us. So we will go according to the decision of the Indian Government.” A similar situation occurred during last year’s Asia Cup, which was supposed to be hosted in Pakistan. The PCB had to adopt a hybrid strategy, with all of India’s matches, including those against Pakistan, being held in Sri Lanka. The final, which India won, took place in Colombo. Although Pakistan had proposed a hybrid approach for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India the previous year, it wasn’t considered. The previous edition of the ICC Champions Trophy was held in England and Wales in 2017 with Pakistan lifting the trophy. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Gautam Gambhir Appointed As Indian Cricket Team Head Coach
Gautam Gambhir has been named as the new head coach of the senior Indian Men’s Cricket Team, as confirmed by BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Tuesday. The 42-year-old’s first assignment will be overseeing the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, comprising 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is starting from July 27, 2024. Succession from Rahul Dravid Gambhir succeeds Rahul Dravid, who served as head coach from November 2021 until June 2024, stepping down after India’s victorious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign in the USA and West Indies. Dravid led India to new heights including reaching the final of the ICC World Test Championship and the 2023 50-over ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, as well as winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2024. Responsibilities and Vision “In his new role as Head Coach of Team India, Gambhir will be responsible for overseeing the development and performance of the Indian cricket team,” stated the BCCI in a press release. “His focus will be on fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork, while also nurturing young talent and preparing the team for future challenges on the global stage.“ Experience and Background Although Gambhir lacks coaching experience on the international arena, he has been a mentor for several IPL teams like the Kolkata Knight Riders, who clinched the championship this year. Gambhir was also a part of the Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2022 and 2023. As a player, Gambhir had major contributions towards Team India’s World Cup victories in 2007 and 2011 during his 12-year international career from 2004 to 2016, featuring in 58 Tests, 147 ODIs, and 37 T20Is. BCCI’s Endorsement BCCI Secretary Jay Shah expressed his enthusiasm on Gambhir’s appointment: “Modern-day cricket has evolved rapidly, and Gautam has witnessed this changing landscape up close. Having endured the grind and excelled in various roles throughout his career, I am confident that Gautam is the ideal person to steer Indian Cricket forward.“ Gambhir’s Commitment Gambhir himself commented on his new role: “India is my identity, and serving my country has been the greatest privilege of my life. I’m honored to be back, albeit in a different capacity. My goal remains the same – to make every Indian proud. The men in blue carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians, and I will do everything in my power to make these dreams come true!“ Acknowledgment of Rahul Dravid’s Legacy Shah also extended gratitude to Rahul Dravid, acknowledging his successful tenure: “Under his guidance, Team India emerged as a dominant force across formats, including being crowned ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Champions!“ BCCI President’s Confidence BCCI President Roger Binny expressed confidence in Gambhir: “The Board would like to thank former Head Coach, Mr Rahul Dravid for his brilliant run with the team. Team India now embarks on a journey under a new coach – Mr Gautam Gambhir. His appointment as Head Coach marks a new chapter for Indian cricket. His experience, dedication, and vision for the game make him the ideal candidate to guide our team forward. We are confident that under his leadership, Team India will continue to excel and make the nation proud,“ Gambhir’s Major Assignments During His Coaching Tenure – India’s Tour Of Australia 2024 (5 Test)– ICC Champion’s Trophy 2025– ICC World Test Championship 2025– India’s Tour Of England 2025 (5 Test)– ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026– India’s Tour Of New Zealand 2026 (2 Test)– ICC World Test Championship 2027– ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027The appointment of Gautam Gambhir as the head coach is a start of a new era for Indian cricket, with expectations high for his leadership and coaching abilities to further elevate the India’s performances in bilateral tournaments as well as in ICC tournaments. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
A Hero’s Journey: Abhishek Sharma’s Arrival In International Cricket
Cricket has an uncanny way of balancing things out, much like life. Abhishek Sharma made his international debut against Zimbabwe on July 6 and was dismissed for a duck. However, just 24 hours later, he transformed from zero to hero by scoring 100 runs in just 47 balls. His explosive innings included seven fours and eight sixes, leaving the Zimbabwean bowlers clueless about where to bowl and what field to set. A Remarkable Acceleration What made Abhishek’s innings truly special was his remarkable acceleration. Initially, he scored 24 runs off 22 balls, but then he blasted the next 76 runs at a strike rate exceeding 300. His century came off just 46 balls, reminiscent of Rohit Sharma’s blistering 92 off 41 balls against Australia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The ‘Hitman’s’ Legacy Lives On Though Rohit Sharma has retired from T20Is, his legacy endures. Abhishek Sharma’s knock bore shades of the ‘Hitman.’ Coincidentally, Rohit’s first international century was also against Zimbabwe in an ODI back in 2010. Abhishek’s father, Mr. Rajkumar Sharma, credited Rohit for his son’s batting display. “The demand of T20 cricket now is to attack from ball one. You have to be brave. Rohit Sharma has shown the way for all the Indian youngsters. The template is set, and I am glad that Abhishek is trying to follow in the footsteps of Rohit,” he told the Indian Express. Following in Great Footsteps In many ways, Rohit was the invisible hand guiding Abhishek as he smashed his way to his first of hopefully many international centuries. Abhishek Sharma had an outstanding IPL season, scoring 484 runs for the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Now, it’s time for him to convert that form into big knocks for the Indian Cricket Team. Rohit’s Lasting Influence Rohit Sharma concluded his T20I career after leading India to the title, but his influence on Abhishek Sharma is evident. The ‘Hitman’ departed with the most runs, joint-most centuries, most games, and most sixes in T20Is. If Abhishek can achieve even a fraction of what Rohit has accomplished, Indian cricket will greatly benefit. This probably is the right time for one ‘Sharma Ji Ka Beta’ to take the baton and carry forward from the other ‘Sharma Ji Ka Beta’. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Raghavendra Dwivedi Story: From 21 Rupees to India’s World Cup Triumph
When India clinched the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, an unassuming man with kumkum on his forehead quietly celebrated on the field. This man, Raghavendra Dwivedi, hails from Karnataka and has an extraordinary story that reflects his determination, passion, and pivotal role in India’s cricketing success. Early Struggles and Determination Around 24 years ago, a young boy named Raghavendra left his home in Kumta, Uttara Kannada district, with just 21 rupees. He dreamt of becoming a cricketer, but a fracture in his hand shattered that dream. Undeterred, Raghavendra decided to carve a new path in the cricketing world. Raghavendra’s father was vehemently against his cricketing aspirations. This led to a decisive moment where Raghavendra chose cricket over everything else. He left for Hubli, where he lived in dire conditions, including sleeping at the bus stand, a temple, and eventually a crematorium. For four and a half years, he called an abandoned building in the crematorium his home, using a cricket mat as his blanket. A Turning Point Despite the hardships he faced, Raghavendra’s passion for cricket never waned. He began assisting cricketers in Hubli by throwing balls during their practice sessions. His dedication caught the attention of a friend who directed him to Bangalore, where he found a place at the Karnataka Institute of Cricket. Tere, he worked tirelessly, throwing balls to Karnataka cricketers and assisting with the bowling machine. His relentless effort did not go unnoticed. Former Karnataka wicketkeeper and current Under-19 selection committee chief Tilak Naidu recognized Raghavendra’s dedication and introduced him to Javagal Srinath, a former Karnataka cricketer. Srinath, impressed by his sincerity and hard work, invited Raghavendra to join the Karnataka Ranji team. This opportunity marked a turning point in his life. Rise to National Recognition Raghavendra’s journey continued at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) near the Chinnaswamy Stadium, where he worked without pay for several years, often going without food. However, his hard work paid off when he completed the BCCI Level-1 coaching course and became a favorite among Indian cricketers who came for practice. His talent was soon recognized by Sachin Tendulkar, leading to his appointment as a training assistant with the Indian Cricket Team in 2011. The Backbone of Team India For the past 13 years, Raghavendra, also known as Raghu, has been a crucial figure in the Indian dressing room. As a throwdown specialist, he has thrown at least 1 million balls during practice sessions. His deliveries, reaching speeds of 150 kph, have honed the skills of players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Kohli once remarked, “Facing Raghu’s 150 kph deliveries in the nets makes the fastest bowlers seem like medium pacers during matches.“ Raghu’s contribution to the team often goes unnoticed, but his role is indispensable. He is known for his speed and precision with the sidearm, making him one of the best throwdown specialists in the world. His dedication and hard work have played a significant part in the success of the Indian Cricket Team, culminating in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup victory. An Inspirational Journey Raghavendra Dwivedi’s story is one of inspiration and perseverance. From living in a crematorium with just 21 rupees to becoming a key figure behind India’s World Cup triumph, his journey exemplifies the power of determination and hard work. His commitment to the sport and the Indian Cricket Team has made him an unsung hero, proving that true passion and dedication can overcome any obstacle. In the words of Virat Kohli, “This man has a huge role in my success today, but his hard work sometimes goes unnoticed by the world.” Raghavendra’s journey is a powerful reminder that behind every successful team, there are individuals whose efforts, though often unseen, are invaluable. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
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