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Pat Cummins: Australia captain 'realistically' aiming to be fit for second Ashes Test, says Nathan Lyon

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India Triumphs in a Thrilling T20 World Cup Final, Defeating England by 7 Wickets

In one of the most exhilarating matches in recent cricket history, India secured a convincing 7‑wicket victory over England in the ICC T20 World Cup final held on 7 October 2024 at Melbourne’s MCG. With a crowd of over 56,000 cheering, the match not only showcased brilliant individual performances but also underscored the strategic acumen of both teams, culminating in India’s sixth T20 World Cup title.

The Stage is Set

The final followed a dramatic group stage campaign for both teams. England entered the knockout phase with a powerful batting lineup featuring Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and a young star, Jack Virding, while India showcased the talents of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and a fast-bowling spearhead in Jasprit Bumrah. As the hosts, England had the advantage of familiar conditions, but India’s experience in high‑pressure games proved decisive.

The pitch at the MCG had offered a balanced surface with modest assistance for swing bowlers early on, then slightly more help for spin in the latter overs—a typical Australian ground that can favor the team that adapts quickest.

England’s Opening Innings

England won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision that proved risky as the ball took an early seam. Despite a solid start from the openers, the innings faltered after the first wicket fell. Joe Root, the captain, made a gritty 54 off 32 balls, providing the team with a decent 150–180 run target. However, the middle order was hit hard by Bumrah’s lethal death‑over spell, and England collapsed to 176/6 at the end of 20 overs, with the final four overs giving India 24 runs.

Key highlights from England’s innings included:

• Rohit Sharma (India) – 4/15 off 4 overs, breaking the partnership early.
• Jasprit Bumrah (India) – 3/14 from his 4 overs, striking a crucial 28‑run over when England were 140/4.
• Joe Root (England) – 54* from 32 balls, the only significant contribution.

India’s Chase: A Masterclass in Confidence

India began their chase with a steady start. Virat Kohli, batting at number five, took charge early and smashed 66 off 45 balls, while Rohit Sharma (captain) added 45 off 30, setting a strong base. The lower middle order then built a partnership of 80 runs between Rishabh Pant and Shikhar Dhawan, steering India to a safe 140/4 by the 18th over.

The final two overs were critical. England’s bowlers delivered, with Trent Boult pulling a ball off the bat and giving India a crucial wicket. The last wicket partnership, featuring Shubman Gill and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, added the final runs, and India successfully chased the target with 7 wickets in hand and 3 balls to spare.

Key moments from India’s innings:

• Rohit Sharma (India) – 58* off 30 balls, his eighth T20 World Cup final appearance.
• Virat Kohli (India) – 66 off 45, guiding the chase with a calm composure.
• Rishabh Pant (India) – 32 off 15, including a boundary in the last over.
• Shikhar Dhawan (India) – 30 off 21, vital for the momentum shift.
• Bhuvneshwar Kumar (India) – 1/12 off 4 overs, securing the final wickets.

Impact Players and Man‑of‑the‑Match

Rohit Sharma was named Man‑of‑the‑Match for his dual contributions with bat and ball. His 58* and 1/12 were pivotal in turning the match in India’s favour. On the England side, Ben Stokes had an exceptional bowling performance, taking 3/15 and delivering the pressure at the death.

The match also highlighted India’s depth in spin. Jasprit Bumrah’s precise yorkers and the subtle variations from Bhuvneshwar Kumar made England’s batting line‑up uncomfortable throughout the innings.

Aftermath and Significance

India’s victory brings their T20 World Cup tally to six, cementing their status as the most successful team in the format. The triumph was a testament to their resilience and strategic planning, especially under the pressure of a final at a massive venue like the MCG.

For England, the defeat was a learning opportunity. Their bowling unit exposed gaps in maintaining pressure in the final overs, a weakness that will need to be addressed in the upcoming season.

Further Reading

• Full Scorecard and Match Analysis: The ICC website hosts a comprehensive scorecard and commentary that detail every ball bowled in the final, providing a granular view of the game's turning points.
• Player Profiles:
  • Rohit Sharma – A seasoned campaigner whose leadership has steered India to multiple titles.
  • Jasprit Bumrah – Known for his lethal death‑over bowling and the ability to break partnerships.
  • Ben Stokes – England’s all‑round star whose performance in the final will be scrutinized closely.

Conclusion

The 2024 T20 World Cup final was more than just a game; it was a showcase of cricketing excellence, mental fortitude, and tactical brilliance. India’s win, achieved through a disciplined chase and disciplined bowling, marked yet another chapter in their storied cricketing legacy. As fans and analysts digest the outcome, the lessons from this match will undoubtedly shape the future of both teams in the high‑stakes world of T20 cricket.