Cricket

India's Triumph and the Rise of Underdogs: A Recap of the T20 World Cup 2024On June 29, 2024, India etched their name in cricket history once again by lifting their second T20 World Cup title. The victory, a thrilling seven-run triumph over South Africa, marked a special moment for the team as they bid farewell to legendary players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja.The tournament witnessed a captivating blend of established stars and emerging talents. Afghanistan and the USA cricket teams made significant strides, while the former champions, West Indies, showcased a remarkable resurgence. However, the early exits of New Zealand, Pakistan, and Australia left a void in the competition.As the tournament progressed, it became evident that bowlers held the upper hand. The best-playing XI of the tournament reflects this trend, featuring a formidable lineup of both batters and bowlers.Team of the Tournament:Rohit Sharma (Captain): The Indian skipper led his team to victory with a tournament-high 257 runs, including a match-winning 92 against Australia.Rahmanullah Gurbaz: The Afghan opener emerged as the tournament's leading run-scorer with 281 runs, showcasing his explosive batting prowess.Nicholas Pooran (Wicket-keeper): The West Indian wicket-keeper batsman enjoyed a stellar tournament, amassing 228 runs at a strike rate of 146.15.Suryakumar Yadav: The world's No.2 T20I batter lived up to his reputation with 199 runs, including two crucial half-centuries.Heinrich Klaasen: The South African middle-order batter impressed with 190 runs, including a quick-fire fifty in the final.Marcus Stoinis: The Australian all-rounder continued his impressive form, scoring 169 runs and taking 10 wickets.Hardik Pandya: The Indian all-rounder transformed into a superstar, contributing 144 runs and 11 wickets.Rashid Khan: The Afghan captain led his team to the semi-finals, scalping 14 wickets with his exceptional leg-spin bowling.Fazalhaq Farooqi: The Afghan fast bowler emerged as the tournament's highest wicket-taker with 17 wickets, including a career-best 5/9.Kuldeep Yadav: The Indian left-arm spinner played a crucial role with 10 wickets, providing breakthroughs at key moments.Jasprit Bumrah: The Indian pacer was named Player of the Tournament, taking 15 wickets at an exceptional economy rate of 4.17.