South Africa failed to chase down 30 runs in the last five overs of their match as India clinched a thrilling victory by seven runs in the final of the T20 World Cup at the Kensington Oval on Saturday to win their second T20 World Cup title.
The Proteas fell seven runs short while chasing India’s 176-run total. With 16 runs needed off the last six balls bowled by Hardik Pandya, India got the upper hand when they sent back David Miller in the first ball, courtesy of a an outstanding grab at long-off from Suryakumar Yadav who grasped the opportunity on his second attempt inches from the boundary after parrying it on his first attempt.
Google News LinkFor all latest news, follow The Daily Star’s Google News channel.
South Africa batters Heinrich Klaasen was at his destructive best as he pumped five sixes and two fours for a 27-ball 52-run blitz which pulled the match firmly in the Proteas’ grip and it was his dismissal at the start of the 17th over that proved to be the fatal blow in South Africa’s hopes of a maiden T20 World Cup.
When Klaasen blasted a superb half-century, it looked as though South Africa, appearing in first final, were closing in on victory but they were halted by some outstanding Indian bowling and catching at the end.
South Africa ended on 169-8 with Hardik Pandya taking 3-20 for India to the delight of the huge Indian following at the stadium.
The win is the second T20 World Cup title for India following their triumph in the first edition in 2007 and it also ends their 11-year wait for a major title going back to the 2013 Champions Trophy.
Veteran Kohli had struggled in the tournament, coming into the final with an average of just 10.7, but he delivered his best innings at the perfect moment with his balanced batting ensuring India won the title after an unbeaten tournament.
“I am so proud to get the runs for the team the day it mattered most,” said Kohli.
“The occasion prompted that change for me, I felt like it was now or never. We have wanted to lift a trophy for a long time.
“The occasion made me put my head down, respect the situation and play the innings that the team needed from me.
“I wasn’t feeling myself before today. I wasn’t confident. So I am very grateful and humble right now. It has been difficult, so there are a lot of emotions,” he added, confirming that the game was his last T20 for India.
“This was an open secret. It’s time for the next generation to take over.”
