In a poignant scene, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma shared an emotional moment after India defeated England to secure a spot in the T20 World Cup 2024 final.
Rohit Sharma’s journey from Adelaide to Guyana is a tale of redemption. From suffering a devastating 10-wicket loss to clinching a comprehensive victory by taking all 10 of England’s wickets, Rohit and India have marched into the T20 World Cup final.
The image of Rohit’s emotional breakdown in the dugout after their previous T20 World Cup exit was unforgettable. Two years later, India exacted revenge by thrashing England by 68 runs in a dominant display, earning their second World Cup final berth in seven months.
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While the win was celebratory, Rohit and his team focused on the bigger challenge: the final, just two days away. As the rest of the team celebrated, Rohit remained composed. After India bowled out England for 103, securing their chase of 172, Rohit quietly retreated to the dressing room balcony, deep in thought. Virat Kohli, his long-time teammate, tried to uplift his spirits, but Rohit’s mind was already on the upcoming final against South Africa.
“You see the relief there on Rohit Sharma’s face. Sitting on that chair. What must he be thinking? I tell you… he is looking at Bridgetown already. What lies ahead on Saturday… the final?” commented former India head coach Ravi Shastri, encapsulating the Indian captain’s mood.
Over the past year, Rohit has led India to the finals of three ICC events: the World Test Championship in June 2023, the 50-overs World Cup in November, and now this. Despite the high expectations, the upcoming final is viewed as India’s best chance to end their decade-long wait for a World Cup victory. Facing another undefeated team in South Africa, India sees this as a golden opportunity.
Under Rohit’s leadership, India has lost only two World Cup or Championship games out of the last 18. Rohit has been at the forefront, transforming India’s T20 cricket approach from cautious to aggressive. Since November 10, 2022, Rohit has championed a new, bold template, which he exemplified in the 50-overs World Cup and continues to embody in the current T20 setup.
Rohit Sharma’s 57 off 39 balls against England, played on a low, slow pitch, was a testament to his adaptability and leadership. Despite the challenging conditions, including rain delays, Rohit maintained his composure, hitting six fours and two sixes. Suryakumar Yadav supported him with a solid 47 off 36 balls. Rohit’s knock, arguably one of the most crucial of his career, highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and guide his team to victory.
India now prepares for the final against South Africa, with Rohit Sharma’s leadership and resilience at the forefront.