Cricket

Rohit Sharma, the captain of India's victorious 2024 Men's T20 World Cup team, has been hailed as a "people's captain" by legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar drew parallels between Rohit and former Indian captains MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev, who also led India to World Cup triumphs.Rohit's journey to World Cup glory has been marked by both success and setbacks. As a member of the Indian team, he won the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. However, he narrowly missed out on the 2023 World Test Championship and ODI World Cup titles as captain.The T20 World Cup victory in South Africa last month was a defining moment for Rohit. India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, showcasing their dominance and Rohit's astute leadership.Gavaskar praised Rohit's ability to connect with his team and the Indian cricketing community. He described Rohit as "well-liked" and "laconic," with a sharp tactical mind."Some of his moves can surprise you and make you scratch your head as to the reason, but the end result is more often than not exactly what the team needed at that moment," Gavaskar wrote.Rohit's contributions on the field were equally impressive. He scored 257 runs at a strike rate of 156.70, providing India with crucial early runs. His fifties against Australia and England were particularly significant.Gavaskar also acknowledged the role of coach Rahul Dravid in India's World Cup triumph. He described the duo of Rohit and Dravid as "totally team-oriented, completely selfless, and prepared to do anything and everything for Team India."Rohit's victory as captain has cemented his legacy as one of India's greatest cricketers. His leadership style and tactical acumen have earned him the respect and admiration of fans and experts alike.

Kamran Akmal's controversial remarks about Sikhs during a TV show in Pakistan during the T20 World Cup sparked widespread outrage, including from former India offspinner Harbhajan Singh. The two former on-field rivals recently came face to face at the 'World Championship of Legends' (WCL) tournament in Birmingham, where they engaged in a heated discussion.Akmal's comments, made during Pakistan's T20 World Cup match against India, drew sharp criticism from Harbhajan, who accused him of disrespecting the Sikh community. Akmal later apologized for his words, expressing regret and stating that he had the utmost respect for Sikhs.At the WCL match on Saturday, Pakistan defeated India by 68 runs. Akmal top-scored for Pakistan with a 40-ball 77, while Harbhajan was not part of the Indian team. Despite the controversy, the two former players were seen in deep discussion after the match, with Harbhajan appearing animated and trying to convey a point to Akmal.The subject of their conversation remains unclear, but it is likely that they discussed the controversy surrounding Akmal's comments. The incident highlights the importance of respecting different religions and cultures, especially in the context of sports.Akmal's apology and the subsequent meeting with Harbhajan suggest that he understands the gravity of his words and is committed to fostering unity and respect. The incident serves as a reminder that sports should be a platform for bringing people together, regardless of their religious or cultural backgrounds.

After India's triumphant T20 World Cup victory, the players have returned home to celebrate with their loved ones. Captain Rohit Sharma arrived late Thursday night, while star batter Virat Kohli flew to London to reunite with his family.Hardik Pandya, India's vice-captain, received a surprise visit from young keeper-batter Ishan Kishan. A viral video captured the heartwarming moment as the two shared a hug and Kishan kissed Pandya on both cheeks."Good meri jaan. Very good, love you," Kishan exclaimed, while Pandya laughed in amusement.The bromance between Pandya and Kishan has become a social media sensation. During a recent interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pandya reflected on the past six months, revealing that he had maintained his composure despite facing adversity."The last 6 months have been very entertaining for me, there have been a lot of ups and downs and the public booed me. A lot of things happened and I always felt that if I give any answer, it would be through sports... So I believed that I would stay strong, will work hard," Pandya said.Despite being mercilessly trolled during the Indian Premier League, Pandya played a pivotal role in India's World Cup victory, notably dismissing Heinrich Klaasen.Meanwhile, Kishan, who is currently without a BCCI central contract, was omitted from the T20 World Cup and Zimbabwe T20I squads. He was reportedly dropped from the central contracts list after refusing to play domestic cricket.

Rishabh Pant's remarkable journey from a career-threatening accident to triumphing in the T20 World Cup has been an inspiration to millions. Upon the Indian team's return from their victorious campaign, Pant shared his gratitude with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support during his recovery.Pant recalled the Prime Minister's call to his mother after the accident, which provided him with immense mental solace. "When my mother told me you called and said 'there won't be any problem,' that made me relax mentally," Pant expressed to Modi.During his recovery, Pant faced doubts about his ability to return to the field, particularly as a wicketkeeper. However, he remained determined to prove himself. "I used to think when I make a return to the field I will try to improve, not for anyone's validation, but only to prove to myself that I can play international cricket and help India win," he said.Pant's comeback in the 2024 IPL season was a testament to his resilience. He led the Delhi Capitals with distinction, scoring 446 runs in 13 games. His impressive performance earned him a spot in the World Cup squad, where he contributed 171 runs in eight matches.Behind the stumps, Pant displayed his exceptional skills, providing solid support to the bowlers. His unwavering determination and unwavering belief in his abilities have been a source of inspiration for the entire nation.Pant's story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can triumph. His journey from a near-fatal accident to the pinnacle of cricket is a testament to his resilience, determination, and unwavering support from his loved ones and the nation.

Virat Kohli's T20 World Cup 2024 journey was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in a match-winning performance in the final against South Africa. Despite a disappointing run-up to the final, Kohli's 76-run knock proved pivotal in India's victory.In a candid conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kohli revealed his lack of confidence before the final. He admitted to struggling with his form and even expressed his concerns to then-head coach Rahul Dravid. Kohli attributed his poor performance to arrogance, stating that he had lost respect for the game."Whenever you feel like 'I can do it,' it's just the arrogance speaking," Kohli said. "If your ego comes up, the game goes away from you. Sometimes, it's important to let that arrogance go off."Dravid and India captain Rohit Sharma played a crucial role in motivating Kohli. They encouraged him to focus on the present and give his all for the team. Kohli's mindset shift paid dividends in the final, as he played a composed and responsible innings."We lived each ball at the end, we can't explain what was going on inside," Kohli said. "We lost hope at one moment, then Hardik took a wicket and then with each ball, we got the energy. I am happy that I was able to contribute to the team in such a big game after a tough time."Kohli's match-winning performance not only secured India's victory but also marked the end of his T20I career. He passed on the baton to the next generation, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and determination.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav returned to his hometown Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, after India's triumph in the T20 World Cup 2024. The team's victory parade in Mumbai was a grand affair, with thousands of fans lining the streets to celebrate their heroes.Yadav, who played a crucial role in India's victory with 10 wickets in the tournament, received a warm welcome from his hometown fans. Hundreds of people gathered to greet him, waving flags and chanting slogans."We are very happy. We waited for this for a long time. It feels great to see our people here. It is a great pleasure to bring the World Cup. This is more for our India than for us," Yadav told ANI.The Indian team's victory parade in Mumbai was an unforgettable event. The players rode on an open-top bus from Marine Drive to the iconic Wankhede Stadium, where they were felicitated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).The team's victory was a testament to their hard work and dedication. They played with passion and determination throughout the tournament, and their victory was a well-deserved reward.The T20 World Cup victory is a major achievement for Indian cricket. It is the second time that India has won the tournament, and it is a testament to the team's strength and depth.The victory is also a source of pride for the entire country. It is a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. The Indian team's victory is an inspiration to us all.

Arshdeep Singh, the left-arm fast bowler from India, received a grand reception upon his return to his hometown of Chandigarh. His fans and loved ones celebrated his arrival with traditional bhangra dance, flower garlands, and a lively procession.Arshdeep's outstanding performance in the recent T20 World Cup was instrumental in India's victorious campaign. He emerged as the joint-highest wicket-taker of the tournament, claiming 17 wickets alongside Afghanistan's Fazalhaq Farooqi."I want to play all formats but at the moment I just want to enjoy the moment and spend time with my family," Arshdeep told PTI Videos while travelling in an open vehicle."I am feeling very happy. I thank everyone for giving me so much love," added Arshdeep.The streets of Chandigarh were filled with jubilant fans, proudly wearing their Team India jerseys and waving the national flag as they celebrated the arrival of Arshdeep. The young cricketer had just returned from Mumbai, where he participated in a victory parade alongside his teammates, following their triumphant win at the T20 World Cup.In a nail-biting final held at Bridgetown, Barbados on Saturday, the Indian team, led by captain Rohit Sharma, secured a thrilling seven-run victory over South Africa. This remarkable achievement also marked India as the first team to win the T20 World Cup without suffering a single defeat throughout the tournament.India celebrated a momentous victory as they clinched their first global title in over a decade and secured their second T20 World Cup win after a 17-year wait.The team's journey back home faced an unexpected hurdle when they found themselves stranded in Barbados due to the looming threat of hurricane Beryl.Upon finally touching down in New Delhi via a chartered flight, the triumphant Men In Blue were honored with a grand reception hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself. The celebration took place over breakfast at the Prime Minister's official residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.As the day progressed, the city of Mumbai witnessed an outpouring of love and support from fans. A massive crowd gathered along Marine Drive to welcome the team, cheering them on as they made their way to the Wankhede Stadium in an open bus, basking in the glory of their victory parade.

Hardik Pandya, the Indian all-rounder who played a pivotal role in India's T20 World Cup triumph, expressed his joy and gratitude during the victory parade in Mumbai. Pandya, who contributed 144 runs and 11 wickets in eight matches, shared his memories of India's previous T20 World Cup victory in 2007."I must have been on the road," Pandya said with a smile. "In 2011, I was on the road, celebrating the same team. It feels surreal because, after a 13-year wait for the next trophy, we have it, and I am part of the team. It's Bombay, where my journey started. There's no bigger pleasure or blessing than this. I am very fortunate to be part of something so amazing, which I will remember for the rest of my life."Pandya also commented on the victory parade, saying, "That's what we all work hard for. We all strive for these kinds of situations, this kind of atmosphere, and the happiness we can create. Mumbai didn't disappoint. Aamchi Mumbai (Our Mumbai)."In a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pandya revealed that he had maintained his composure during difficult times, making the victory even more significant. Despite facing public criticism and boos during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, the 30-year-old showcased resilience, letting his performance speak volumes.During the IPL 2024 season, Pandya faced harsh criticism from Mumbai Indians fans and social media trolls. After a successful two-year stint with the Gujarat Titans, which included winning the title in their debut season in 2022, Pandya returned to Mumbai Indians. His appointment as captain, replacing Rohit Sharma, led to a massive backlash from fans both online and in stadiums across India.Despite these challenges, Pandya's contributions to India's World Cup victory have cemented his place as a key player and a resilient leader, bringing immense pride to himself and his team.

Team India's triumphant return from Barbados with the 2024 T20 World Cup trophy sparked a nationwide celebration. The world champions were greeted with a warm reception from the Prime Minister to a victory parade and felicitation ceremony in Mumbai.Upon arriving at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, pacer Mohammed Siraj received a grand welcome from his hometown fans. The heartwarming moment came when Siraj shared a picture of his mother proudly wearing his T20 World Cup medal on Instagram."We had to wait 11 years for this moment so I am really happy," Siraj expressed to reporters.In Mumbai, the Rohit Sharma-led team embarked on an open-top bus parade from Marine Drive. Fans lined the streets, dancing and cheering as the players held the coveted trophy aloft. The parade culminated at the Wankhede Stadium, where the team danced to the rhythm of 'dhol' amidst thunderous applause.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) presented the team with a cheque of Rs 125 crores at the Wankhede Stadium. The victory celebration was a testament to the unwavering support of Indian cricket fans and the team's remarkable achievement.