For those without tickets, the lanes leading to the gigantic stadium became a hub of excitement. Fans danced to the chants of “India! India!” and the thumping beats of the dhol, which erupted the moment the Indian team completed formalities inside the stadium.
Amidst the revelry, Team India’s first priority was to take the trophy to the temple inside the stadium. ICC Chair Jay Shah accompanied the players as they offered prayers and received blessings before moving on to the celebrations.
By around 2:30 am, word had spread that the team had arrived at their hotel, prompting hundreds to gather along the heavily secured streets. Police blocked the main road, but determined fans found ways to navigate the final stretch. Hotel staff prepared for the crowd by blocking entry points, making even some guests wait before allowing access.
When Hardik Pandya stepped off the team bus holding the trophy, fireworks exploded nearby, causing the players to duck for cover. The customary flower shower, music, and dhol beats followed, but the team quickly moved into the hotel ballroom to avoid the chaos in the lobby—a sensible move that disappointed some fans who had waited for hours outside.
Even after entering the hotel, the celebrations continued. Family members and managers of select players mingled near the entrance but were reminded that the party was far from over and the players would be occupied for hours. Gradually, the crowd around the hotel began to disperse, while police ensured no one tried to scale the walls for a glimpse of the champions.
Players also began planning their return journeys, though most were set to enjoy some of the most peaceful sleep of their lives. As Suryakumar Yadav noted, “It will take at least 3-4 days to sink in, the feeling of winning the T20 World Cup at home. But it feels unreal.”
Ahmedabad, as always, made sure that the victory of Team India was celebrated with grandeur, energy, and memories that will last a lifetime.
