South Africa T20 World Cup. (Source – Twitter/X)
The T20 World Cup 2024 ended in heartbreak for South Africa and ecstasy for India. The Aiden Markram-led Proteas reached the summit clash of the tournament by staying unbeaten throughout the tournament. The only game they lost was the final against India.
Chasing 177, South Africa looked set for a title after they required 30 runs in just as many deliveries to win the game and the tournament. However, India’s exceptional performance with the ball saw the side crumble under pressure. Despite their heartbreak, it would be a campaign that the Proteas can be extremely proud of.
As the side boarded the bus after the game, some Indian fans gathered nearby could be seen cheering for South Africa, hyping them up after the loss. The clip of the wholesome moment has been making the rounds all over social media.
Indian cricket fans appreciating the South African team after the T20I World Cup final. 👌
– A beautiful gesture by the fans.
“WE LOVE YOU SOUTH AFRICA”
Indian fans also cheering for disheartened South African team, leaving stadium after losing final against India 🇿🇦🇮🇳#INDvSA #T20WCWithTOK #ShellVPower #T20WorldCupFinal pic.twitter.com/fjUfuPiGpY
— Times of Karachi (@TOKCityOfLights) June 29, 2024
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 1, 2024
India’s exceptional bowling propelled South Africa to title win
India found themselves in a spot of bother in the first innings after Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant’s early wickets. However, Virat Kohli’s 76-run knock helped the Men in Blue reach 176 in the first innings. India did got off to a brilliant start in the second innings, dismissing Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram early. However, Quinton de Kock and Tristran Stubbs’ partnership pushed them on the backfoot.
Heinrich Klaasen’s quickfire half century almost took the game away from India’s hands, but the final three overs of the game turned the tide. Jasprit Bumrah took the wicket of Marco Jansen, whereas Klaasen was sent packing by Hardik Pandya and conceding minimal boundaries in the final overs, India won the game by seven runs and lifted their second T20 World Cup title.