India return to heroes’ welcome following T20 World Cup triumph
With Hurricane Beryl causing travel chaos, Rohit Sharma’s men have finally reached home.
India’s triumphant T20 World Cup 2024 squad have touched down in New Delhi with the trophy, following a marathon trip home from the Caribbean.
Every emotion, and every angle of the heart-stopping second innings of the 2024 T20 World Cup Final between India and South Africa
Squad members, support staff and families were grounded by Hurricane Beryl, at that stage a category four hurricane that passed through Barbados, with Grantley Adams International Airport in Bridgetown shut for three days.
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The flight organised by the BCCI, one of several to eventually take off from the airport, departed on July 2 before arriving early July 4 India time. Board officials and members of the media contingent from the tournament were also on the flight.
Giving everything for T20 World Cup glory was Rohit Sharma.
India ended a 13-year global event drought with victory in the final, defeating South Africa by seven runs on Saturday. Jasprit Bumrah collected Player of the Tournament honours.
Soon after their arrival, the team were greeted by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence in New Delhi.
The triumphant Indian Cricket Team met with the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modiji, at his official residence today upon arrival.
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 4, 2024
Sir, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for your inspiring words and the invaluable support you have provided to… pic.twitter.com/9muKYmUVkU
A huge reception awaited India in Mumbai for the victory parade at the Wankhede Stadium, the same place where they won their last World Cup back in 2011.
Marine Drive was flocked with fans to welcome the team and there was a rousing reception for the title winners.
Speaking to the fans at the Wankhede, Rohit Sharma said:
"It is a special team and I am so lucky to lead this team. The reception we've received here tells you the kind of enthusiasm people had for this trophy."
"Yes, of course, it means so much for us but it's for the entire nation. Along with all the players who have represented the country, I think the people who've been wanting us to win the trophy, it [trophy] belongs to them."
Virat Kohli also lauded the truly "special reception", stating that it was something he would never forget.
The stalwart batter also reserved special praise for Jasprit Bumrah, stating that he would sign a petition to acknowledge the pacer as the "eighth wonder of the world".
"I'll sign the petition for Jasprit Bumrah to be the eighth wonder of the world right now. He is a once-in-a-generation bowler," Kohli said.
