India secured a commanding 68-run victory over defending champions England to advance to the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 on Thursday, June 28. Skipper Rohit Sharma’s brilliant half-century (57) set the stage for India’s formidable total of 171, followed by a stellar performance from ace spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, who each bagged three wickets, restricting England to a meager 103.
This triumph also marks the end of a decade-long wait for India to return to the T20 World Cup final, while also avenging their 2022 World Cup semi-final defeat against England. The undefeated Indian team will face an unbeaten South Africa in the final tomorrow, June 29.
In the first innings, Rohit Sharma showcased masterful batting on a pitch with low bounce, scoring a composed 57 off 39 balls. Despite Virat Kohli’s early dismissal for 9, while attempting to increase the scoring rate, Rohit found a reliable partner in Suryakumar Yadav, who added a valuable 47 off 36 balls, helping India reach a challenging total.
The highly anticipated match was marred by intermittent rain, delaying the start by one hour and 15 minutes. Another rain delay occurred when India was at 65 for two in eight overs. The game was allotted an additional 250 minutes, with no reserve day.
Batting first, Rohit and Kohli struggled against the pace attack of Reece Topley and Jofra Archer on a slower surface. However, the innings stabilized with contributions from Rohit and Suryakumar, leading to a competitive score of 171 for seven. India’s spinners then capitalized on the conditions, dismantling England’s batting lineup and sealing a decisive victory.
India now looks forward to the final showdown against South Africa, promising an exciting climax to the T20 World Cup.