South Africa squandered a strong position, losing control in the final overs to fall short against India by seven runs in a thrilling ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 final at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown.

Chasing 178 for victory, South Africa started well, taking early wickets through Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj. However, their momentum faltered as India rebuilt around Virat Kohli’s anchoring knock of 76 runs.

India, electing to bat first, posted a competitive 177/7 on the board. Openers Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant fell cheaply, but a crucial partnership between Kohli and Axar Patel revived their innings. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, India managed a defendable total.

South Africa’s chase mirrored India’s start, with early dismissals of Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram. Quinton de Kock (39) and Heinrich Klaasen (52) provided some hope, but both departed at crucial moments. Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery bowling in the death overs proved decisive, restricting South Africa and securing India’s second T20 World Cup title in 17 years.