T20 World Cup 2024: India’s 'perfect' move to slow down clash against South Africa catches Ravi Shastri’s attention

Team India scripted history, winning their second T20 World Cup title by defeating South Africa in the summit clash of the tournament in Barbados. Chasing a target of 177 runs, South Africa looked set for an easy run chase after Heinrich Klaasen’s heroics and required just 30 runs in just as many deliveries. 

However, a masterclass in tactics by skipper Rohit Sharma and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant helped slow down the game for India. Right after Jasprit Bumrah’s third over, when South Africa needed 26 runs off 24 deliveries, Pant called for a medical time out. 

The physio came out to the ground to put some tape around the wicketkeeper’s knee. However, former India cricketer Ravi Shastri opined that India were just trying to slow the game down so they could break the rhythm of the two batters. 

"India is doing everything possible, even slowing down the game so that they can break the rhythm of these two explosive batters," Ravi Shastri said on-air. 

The play was resumed after a few minutes, and Heinrich Klaasen was sent packing on the very first ball by Hardik Pandya, which saw the Proteas’ batting order collapse and India eventually win the game by seven runs and lift their second T20 World Cup. 

Excellent bowling helped India win the game

After Virat Kohli’s 76-run knock helped India post a total of 176 runs in the first innings, the Men in Blue got off to a great start to the second innings as Proteas’ opener Reeza Hendrick was sent packing for just four runs. Aiden Markram departed for just four runs as well. 

Quinton de Kock and Tristan Stubbs built a partnership, scoring 39 and 31 runs, respectively. Furthermore, Heinrich Klaasen opened the game with his quickfire half century. India looked to be in trouble, but brilliant execution of the tactics helped the side win the game. 

Hardik Pandya was the highest wicket taker, with three wickets to his name. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh took two wickets each, with Axar Patel striking once.