‘Hats off to Hardik…’: Rohit Sharma Heaps Praises; 7 Emotional Moments from T20 World Cup Champions at Wankhede Stadium

On July 5, the victorious Indian T20 World Cup team was greeted by an enormous crowd of enthusiastic fans in Mumbai. The streets were filled with people celebrating the team’s triumph, culminating in a grand reception at the Wankhede Stadium. Here are some of the most emotional speeches delivered by key players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Hardik Pandya during the event.

Historical Context

The T20 World Cup is one of the most prestigious tournaments in international cricket, and India’s victory in 2024 marked a significant achievement, coming 11 years after their last major ICC trophy win in 2013. The Wankhede Stadium, a historic venue in Mumbai, has been the site of many memorable cricketing moments, including India’s 2011 World Cup win.

Rohit Sharma Lauds Hardik Pandya

At the Wankhede Stadium, where Hardik Pandya had previously faced criticism during IPL 2024, the atmosphere was now filled with cheers. Rohit Sharma praised Pandya for his crucial role in the final over of the World Cup.

“Hardik was bowling the final over for us. Hats off to him for bowling that last over. You know, no matter how many runs you need, there is always so much pressure to bowl that over. But hats off to him,” said the 37-year-old Sharma.

Hardik Pandya’s Emotional Message

Hardik Pandya, who experienced a redemption arc during the T20 World Cup, expressed his gratitude to the fans.

“India, you mean the world to me! From the bottom of my heart, thank you for all the love. These are moments that I will never ever forget! Thank you for coming out to celebrate with us, despite the rains! We love you so much! Celebrating with you is why we do what we do! We’re all champions! All 1.4 billion of us! Thank you Mumbai, thank you India,” Pandya wrote on social media.

Rohit Sharma Dedicates Trophy to the Nation

Rohit Sharma dedicated the T20 World Cup trophy to the entire nation and acknowledged the fans’ unwavering support.

“This trophy is for the entire nation. Along with all the players who have represented the country, we want to dedicate it to our fans, who have waited for 11 years. Mumbai never disappoints. We got a solid reception. On behalf of the team, we would like to thank the fans. I am very, very happy and relieved,” Sharma said.

Virat Kohli on Rohit Sharma’s Emotions

Virat Kohli revealed that he had never seen Rohit Sharma so emotional in their 15-year association until the T20 World Cup victory.

“This is the first time in 15 years that I have seen Rohit show so much emotion. When we were climbing those steps (at Kensington Oval) he was crying and I was crying,” Kohli shared.

Kohli Reflects on 2011 World Cup Emotions

Kohli, who was the youngest member of the 2011 World Cup-winning team, now understands the emotions of senior players from that time.

“I couldn’t connect with the emotions of the senior players who cried that night but now I do,” Kohli said.

Kohli Praises Jasprit Bumrah

Kohli lauded Jasprit Bumrah as a “once in a generation player” and expressed his willingness to sign a petition declaring Bumrah a national treasure.

“Bumrah is a once in a generation player and so glad he plays for us. What he did in those last 5 overs, it was phenomenal,” Kohli added.

Rahul Dravid Bids Adieu

As Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach ended, he expressed his gratitude for the fans’ love and support.

“I am going to miss this love. What we have seen today is absolutely phenomenal. What we have seen right from the time we have landed here. Just the love of these people and fans. It is the greatest game in the world because of the fans of India,” Dravid said. VVS Laxman will take over as head coach for the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe.

Summary in Bullet Points

• Historical Context: India’s T20 World Cup win in 2024, 11 years after their last major ICC trophy.
• Rohit Sharma Praises Hardik Pandya: Commended Pandya for his crucial final over.
• Hardik Pandya’s Message: Expressed gratitude to fans and celebrated the collective victory.
• Rohit Sharma Dedicates Trophy: Dedicated the win to the nation and fans.
• Virat Kohli on Rohit Sharma: Noted Rohit’s rare display of emotion.
• Kohli Reflects on 2011: Now understands the emotions of senior players from the 2011 World Cup.
• Kohli Praises Bumrah: Called Bumrah a “once in a generation player.”
• Rahul Dravid’s Farewell: Expressed gratitude for the fans’ love and support.