India's Rohit Sharma Reflects on T20 World Cup Win: 'Barbados Forever in My Veins' After Triumph Over South Africa

Rohit Sharma has fondly recalled India's memorable journey to victory at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, emphasizing the significance of the Kensington Oval in Barbados.

Speaking on JioHotstar’s special program “Champions Waali Feeling Phir Se,” Sharma relived the emotions of lifting the trophy after a 17-year drought, following a thrilling final against South Africa.

The final match was a nail-biting encounter that went down to the wire, with India ultimately holding their nerve to secure the coveted title. The victory was the culmination of an undefeated run, showcasing India's dominance and resilience throughout the tournament.

One of the standout moments of the tournament was the high-octane clash between India and Pakistan. “It wasn’t just a game,” Sharma remembered. “Two days before the match, we were locked in — tight security, fans everywhere, you could feel something special was coming. It felt like a festival had taken over.”

India prevailed by six runs in a tense, low-scoring affair, with Jasprit Bumrah earning the Player of the Match award for his exceptional bowling performance of 3 for 14.

Despite an early batting collapse, Rishabh Pant's counter-attacking 42 off 31 balls proved crucial in taking India to a total of 119.

“On that pitch, his 42 was like scoring 70,” Sharma noted, acknowledging the challenging conditions. “We knew 140 was par, but with our bowlers, even 119 could work.”

Sharma lauded the efforts of Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh for their effective execution of the team's plans. “Bumrah is a weapon — he takes wickets and dries up runs. Arshdeep’s been brilliant too, and they were crucial in pushing the game in our favour.”

From the electrifying atmosphere of the India-Pakistan match to the tense final in Barbados, Sharma’s reflections offer a poignant reminder of a team that created unforgettable memories for the nation.