India finally ended their 11-year drought of an ICC title by defeating South Africa by seven runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup final at Kensington Oval.
Few will be heaving a bigger sigh of relief than the vice-captain of Team India, Hardik Pandya. The sprightly all-rounder has been under hectic scrutiny and criticism ever since his move from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians.
Though he did not turn out his batting, the most critical moments called for Pandya. Needing to defend 16 runs in the final over, it was the 30-year-old who stepped up to the plate, knocking over a crucial wicket of David Miller that tilted the balance in favor of India. Later in the over, he removed Rabada to seal a nervy seven-run win for his side.
"It's very emotional, something was not clicking, but this was something the whole nation wanted. Special for me after my six months, I haven't spoken a word, things have been unfair, but I knew there'd be a time I could shine. An opportunity like this makes it all the more special. We always believed, stayed calm, let the pressure come to them. Last over, I knew I had to execute my plans. All of a sudden my run-up speed increases. I have been in this situation, I enjoy the pressure situation," said Hardik Pandya after the match.
The team shed tears after the last ball, and the victory was prominent on Pandya's face. He has very articulately silenced his critics and cemented his place in Indian cricketing history.
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