India set a 177-run target for South Africa in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 final at Kensington Oval, Barbados.
Virat Kohli, opening for India, played a pivotal role by scoring 76 runs off 59 balls, including six fours and two sixes. Early in the match, South Africa gained the upper hand, dismissing Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and top-order batter Rishabh Pant in the first two overs. Despite this, Kohli hit several boundaries early on, though South Africa responded strongly in the subsequent overs, claiming key wickets.
Suryakumar Yadav was out for a low score, but Axar Patel added a crucial 47 runs off 31 balls before running out.
The final, which capped a month-long tournament hosted in the USA and the Caribbean, featured intense competition. Both teams entered the final with unchanged lineups after winning their semi-final matches.
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The tournament showcased varied levels of quality and entertainment but ultimately succeeded in bringing together the top two teams of the format. Previously, India defeated England by 68 runs, and South Africa overcame Afghanistan by nine wickets.
The T20 World Cup 2024 final marks a significant milestone for South Africa, entering its first major men’s final since 1998. For India, a victory would secure its second T20 World Cup title since 2007.
