'My heart rate was up': MS Dhoni's special post for World Champions Team India

NEW DELHI: Team India, starved of an ICC title since their Champions Trophy victory in 2013, finally ended their 11-year drought with a thrilling seven-run triumph over South Africa in the T20 World Cup final at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday.

Having endured setbacks in recent ICC events, including back-to-back World Test Championship final losses and a runner-up finish in the 50-over World Cup last year, India's victory brought immense relief and joy.

This marked India's second T20 World Cup triumph since their inaugural win in 2007 under the leadership of the legendary MS Dhoni, and their first major title since the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Following India's victory, Dhoni, who guided India to three ICC titles (2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy), expressed his elation on Instagram, congratulating Rohit Sharma's men.

"WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS 2024. My heart rate was up, well done on being calm, having the self-belief and doing what u guys did. From all the Indians back home and everywhere in the world a big thank you for bringing the World Cup Home. CONGRATULATIONS. arreeee thanks for the priceless birthday gift," Dhoni wrote.

Dhoni will turn 43 on July 7.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss in the final, Virat Kohli, India's star batsman, played a pivotal innings, scoring his first half-century of the tournament with a stylish 76 off 59 balls, including six fours and two sixes, guiding India to a competitive total of 176 for seven.

India's bowlers, spearheaded by Arshdeep Singh (2/20) and Jasprit Bumrah (2/18), continued their stellar form from earlier matches, restricting South Africa to 169 for eight and securing India's second T20 World Cup title.

After the match, Kohli announced his retirement from Twenty20 internationals, reflecting on his contribution and the team's journey.

"It's an open secret, it's time for the next generation to take over," Kohli stated at the presentation ceremony. "Some amazing players will take the team forward and keep the flag waving high."

His outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match award, capping off a memorable victory and marking the end of an era in Indian cricket.