The Indian cricket team, celebrating their T20 World Cup victory, was warmly welcomed back to India. The team, led by captain Rohit Sharma, arrived in New Delhi from Barbados on a special chartered flight arranged by the BCCI. Despite being stranded for three days in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl, their return was met with a rousing reception from fans and media at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi
On Thursday morning, the team visited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence at Lok Kalyan Marg in New Delhi for a special breakfast meeting. The players, along with the support staff, departed from ITC Maurya, greeted by enthusiastic fans. During the hour-long meeting, PM Modi congratulated the team on their triumph and expressed confidence in their future successes. He encouraged the players to continue their winning streak in upcoming tournaments.
Celebratory Activities and Interaction
Prime Minister Modi engaged in a light-hearted conversation with the players, reminiscing about their World Cup journey. The meeting was marked by laughter and shared anecdotes. Head coach Rahul Dravid, along with key players like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya, spoke about their experiences. The BCCI Secretary Jay Shah and President Roger Binny were also present, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere.
The Grand Parade in Mumbai
After the meeting, the team headed back to the New Delhi airport to fly to Mumbai for a grand open-top bus parade. The players donned special jerseys with ‘Champions’ emblazoned on them, embodying their victorious spirit. The parade is set to take place along Marine Drive, culminating in a felicitation ceremony at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
India’s victory in the T20 World Cup was a monumental achievement. The team defeated South Africa in a thrilling final at the Kensington Oval in Barbados, clinching their second T20 World Cup title. This victory marked the end of an 11-year drought for an ICC trophy, highlighting the team’s determination and skill.
Fans’ Enthusiastic Welcome
Thousands of fans braved early morning rain to catch a glimpse of their heroes at the airport. The players, including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, greeted and waved at the cheering crowd. The airport scene was filled with jubilation as fans celebrated the return of their champions. Rohit Sharma, holding the T20 World Cup trophy aloft, became a viral sensation with his triumphant pose.
The celebrations continued outside the team hotel in New Delhi, where captain Rohit Sharma danced to traditional dhol beats. Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant also showcased their Bhangra skills, adding to the festive atmosphere. Vice-captain Hardik Pandya, sporting a Caribbean-style white hat, joined in the celebrations, reflecting the team’s joyous spirit.
Upcoming Felicitation Ceremony
In Mumbai, the celebrations will reach their peak with a victory parade and a grand felicitation ceremony at the Wankhede Stadium. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah will present the trophy and the prize money of Rs 125 crore to the team. The open-top bus parade, stretching for 1 km along Marine Drive, will allow fans to celebrate with their heroes.
Conclusion of a Glorious Campaign
India’s T20 World Cup campaign was marked by an unbeaten streak, including dominant victories over former champions Australia and England. The triumph in Barbados was a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary journey. The victory also marked the retirement of stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from T20Is, while head coach Rahul Dravid ended his tenure on a high note.
This T20 World Cup victory is a testament to the skill, perseverance, and team spirit of the Indian cricket team, promising a bright future for Indian cricket on the global stage.
