‘Hats off to Hardik…’: Rohit Sharma Heaps Praises; 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 emotional speeches delivered by key players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Hardik Pandya during the event.

Historical Context

The T20 World Cup victory is a significant milestone in Indian cricket history, reminiscent of India’s previous World Cup wins in 1983 and 2011. The 2024 victory marks a new chapter, showcasing the evolution and resilience of the Indian cricket team.

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 match.

“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 Sharma.

Hardik Pandya’s Emotional Message

Hardik Pandya expressed his gratitude to the fans and the nation for their unwavering support. He took to social media to share his heartfelt message.

“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.

Rohit Sharma Dedicates Trophy to the Nation

Rohit Sharma dedicated the T20 World Cup trophy to the entire nation and acknowledged the fans’ long wait for this victory.

“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 years of association until the T20 World Cup triumph.

“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 reflected on his experience as the youngest member of the 2011 World Cup-winning team, understanding the emotions of senior players like Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh, and Yuvraj Singh.

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

Jasprit Bumrah Praised as a ‘Once in a Generation Player’

Kohli praised Jasprit Bumrah, calling him a ‘once in a generation player’ and expressing his gratitude for Bumrah’s contributions to the team.

“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 said.

Rahul Dravid Bids Adieu

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

“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 the head coach for the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe, with India’s next head coach yet to be announced.

Summary

• Historical Context: The victory is a significant milestone, reminiscent of India’s previous World Cup wins.
• Rohit Sharma Praises Hardik Pandya: Commended Pandya for his crucial role in the final over.
• Hardik Pandya’s Message: Expressed gratitude to fans and the nation.
• Rohit Sharma Dedicates Trophy: Dedicated the trophy to the nation and fans.
• Virat Kohli on Rohit Sharma’s Emotions: First time seeing Rohit emotional in 15 years.
• Kohli Reflects on 2011 Emotions: Now understands the emotions of senior players from 2011.
• Jasprit Bumrah Praised: Called a ‘once in a generation player’ by Kohli.
• Rahul Dravid Bids Adieu: Expressed gratitude for fan support as his tenure ends.