NEW DELHI: India secured their second T20 World Cup title with a narrow seven-run victory over South Africa in the final on Saturday.
India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah played a pivotal role in the team’s victory. Captain Rohit Sharma praised Bumrah's ability to excel under pressure, which was crucial in the win.
Bumrah and Hardik Pandya were instrumental for India, especially in the crucial final stages. Bumrah finished with figures of 2/18 in his four overs. Hardik's contribution was equally important, with 3/20 in three overs, including the decisive wicket of David Miller in the final over, aided by a spectacular catch from Suryakumar Yadav.
"I can understand you guys trying to put it into words, but I've been someone who has seen him for so many years, even playing alongside him, but even I don't know what exactly is with him. I know exactly what he brings to the table, but how he does that is just a masterclass," Rohit was quoted as saying by ANI during the post-match presentation.
"He backs his skills, which is more than enough, and he is a very confident lad. Whatever he wants to do, he executes to perfection, which is a very rare sight. Jasprit Bumrah, to put it in one word, he's a class act," Rohit added.
When the game was in a delicate balance, Hardik Pandya bowled a crucial 16th over before Bumrah's game-changing over that secured a wicket and conceded just two runs, helping India gain the upper hand.
"Hardik was brilliant as well, bowling that last over, no matter how many runs are required, to bowl that last over, I am very proud of the boys," Rohit added.
India's journey to the title began in New York and concluded with the exhilarating win in Barbados. Rohit expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support from fans in the Caribbean and back in India, who remained glued to their screens despite the late hours.
"Absolutely fantastic, all the way from New York to Barbados I just want to salute them for coming and supporting us the way they have and even back home in India, millions are sitting and watching, it's late night in India, I'm pretty sure they are up watching this. They have been waiting a long time, just like us. This is for them. Very, very proud of what we have achieved today," Rohit concluded.
