India’s cricket team received a hero’s welcome upon returning home after their thrilling victory in the Twenty20 World Cup final in Barbados. The team, led by skipper Rohit Sharma, arrived at New Delhi International Airport early Thursday morning, proudly displaying the World Cup trophy.
Hundreds of enthusiastic supporters gathered at the airport, waving national flags and chanting “India, India.” The celebrations, which had started on Saturday following the win, were set to intensify with thousands more fans waiting to greet the team. Some players even danced to drum beats upon reaching their hotel, adding to the festive atmosphere.
India’s sensational seven-run victory over South Africa in the gripping final ended a long drought in global International Cricket Council limited-overs competitions. The team’s return from the Caribbean was delayed due to a shutdown caused by Hurricane Beryl in Barbados.
“It’s a lifetime experience,” said cricket official Arun Dhumal, reflecting the joy and pride shared by fans and officials alike.
This T20 triumph marks India’s first World Cup title since winning the 50-over version in 2011. It comes after a challenging year in which India lost both the World Test Championship final to Australia in England and the 50-over World Cup final at home, also to the Australians.
Following their arrival, the cricketers met with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. They were then scheduled to fly to Mumbai for an open bus roadshow, culminating in a celebration ceremony at the iconic Wankhede Stadium later on Thursday.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a substantial cash bonus of 1.25 billion rupees ($15 million) for the victorious squad, acknowledging their outstanding achievement.
In a surprising turn of events, soon after the title win, Rohit Sharma, star batter Virat Kohli, and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja announced their retirement from international T20 matches, marking the end of an era for Indian cricket.
