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In 2021, they promised a lot, but defeats to Pakistan and New Zealand brought their campaign to an early exit.

Over the next month and a half, Rohit and the Indian team sizzled with performances in all facets of the game and captured the imagination of everyone. Their road to this World Cup was full of uncertainty and injuries to key players.

The match, which held promise for Pakistan, was marred by controversial umpiring decisions, casting a shadow over the proceedings.

As the cricketing world grapples with the aftermath, the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA looms large, presenting a formidable challenge for Indian cricket.

Despite a missed opportunity when Aiden Markram dropped a chance from Jaiswal early on, South Africa swiftly took charge.

The Proteas' seasoned opener, Dean Elgar, demonstrated exceptional skill with a commanding 185 runs, exhibiting sharp driving shots and prudent judgment with 11 fours and a six in his 84 off 147 balls.

Australia's top-order, including David Warner (38), Usman Khawaja (42), and Steve Smith (26), initiated promising starts but couldn't convert them into half-centuries.

India opted to bat after a delayed start due to rain.

Faf attributed India's past difficulties to the unique bounce characteristics of South African pitches, notably distinct from the conditions in the subcontinent.

Responding to this decision, Indian captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged the familiarity with the conditions due to prior visits.