The 8th warm-up match between Afghanistan and West Indies for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 will take place at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground in Bengaluru. Afghanistan's confident start was highlighted by their dominant all-round display against Scotland, which resulted in a 61-run win in this ICC Men's T20 World Cup warm-up match in Bengaluru. Darwish Rasooli was the standout performer for Afghanistan, scoring 84 runs 46 balls.

West Indies entered the warm-up matches having suffered a heavy defeat in the T20I series against South Africa, but they managed to end the series with a six-run victory in the third T20I. Shai Hope and Brandon King's performances have been encouraging, and the rise of Sherfane Rutherford as a potent middle order batsman, alongside Rovman Powell, adds additional strength.

Also Read: What worries me…”- MS Dhoni reacts to India’s chances in T20 World Cup 2026

AFG vs WI Match Details

• Match: Afghanistan vs West Indies, 8th Warm-up Match 

• Date: 4th February 2026

• Time: 3.00 PM IST

• Venue: BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground, Bengaluru 

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

AFG vs WI Weather Report

AFG vs WI Pitch Report

Both batters and bowlers can benefit from the balanced track at BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1. At this venue, spinners are heavily utilized and the average first innings score is around 150-160 runs.

Top Batters to Watch – AFG vs WI

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG): 2141 runs in T20I

• Shai Hope (WI): 1455 runs in T20I 

• Rovman Powell (WI): 2112 runs in T20I 

Top Bowlers to Watch – AFG vs WI

• Rashid Khan (AFG): 187 wickets in T20I 

• Akeal Hosein (WI): 86 wickets in T20I 

• Mohammad Nabi (AFH): 104 wickets in T20I

AFG vs WI Recent Form

AFG vs WI Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If AFG Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 40–45

• Predicted Total: 150–160

• Match Result: WI to win

Scenario 2: If WI bats first

• Powerplay Score: 45–55

• Predicted Total: 175–185

• Match Result: WI to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

AFG vs WI Predicted Playing XIs

Afghanistan 

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan (c), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi

West Indies 

Shai Hope (C & wk), Brandon King, Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie. Matthew Forde

Why West Indies Are Favourites Today

• Strong batting unit

• Powerful hitters

• Shimron Hetmyer form

AFG vs WI Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior bowling strength, West Indies are the favourites to win this ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Shai Hope, Brandon King and Shimron Hetmyer are expected to be the key performers.

AFG vs WI Match FAQs

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 1st warm-up match between Afghanistan and Scotland will take place at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground, Bengaluru. Afghanistan's recent form is excellent, they defeated the West Indies in their last series. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran and Rashid Khan were their key performers.

On the other hand, Scotland will rely heavily on players like George Munsey, Brandon McMullen and Richie Berrington as they look to make the most of their opportunity after entering the tournament as a replacement for Bangladesh. They won two out of their last five matches.

Also Read: ICC T20 World Cup 2026: AFG vs SCO Dream11 Prediction 01st Warm-up Match Fantasy Cricket Tips, Probable Playing XI

AFG vs SCO Match Details

• Match: Afghanistan vs Scotland, 1st Warm-up Match 

• Date: 2nd February 2026

• Time: 3.00 PM IST

• Venue: BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground, Bengaluru 

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

AFG vs SCO Weather Report

AFG vs SCO Pitch Report

The surface here will be good for batting with very short boundaries on either side. We can expect a high-scoring fixture and both teams will prefer chasing.

Top Batters to Watch – AFG vs SCO

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG): 2141 runs in T20I

• George Munsey (SCO): 2302 runs in T20I 

• Ibrahim Zadran (AFG): 1695 runs in T20I 

Top Bowlers to Watch – AFG vs SCO

• Rashid Khan (AFG): 187 wickets in T20I 

• Mohammad Nabi (AFG): 104 wickets in T20I 

• Mark Watt (SCO): 89 wickets in T20I

AFG vs SCO Recent Form

AFG vs SCO Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If SCO Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 45–50

• Predicted Total: 155–165

• Match Result: AFG to win

Scenario 2: If AFG bats first

• Powerplay Score: 45–55

• Predicted Total: 170–180

• Match Result: AFG to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

AFG vs SCO Predicted Playing XIs

Afghanistan 

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib.

Scotland 

Matthew Cross, George Munsey, Richie Berrington, Brandon McMullen/Michael Jones, Tom Bruce, Jack Jarvis, Mark Watt, Safyaan Sharif, Michael Leask, Chris Greaves, Bradley Currie

Why Afghanistan Are Favourites Today

• World-class spin attack

• Strong top-order

• Recent form is excellent 

• Asian conditions 

AFG vs SCO Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior bowling strength, Afghanistan are the favourites to win this ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran and  Noor Ahmad are expected to be the key performers.

AFG vs SCO Match FAQs

India’s victory in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 ended a long wait for the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side as they wrote a new viewership record after beating South Africa in the final at the DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. The final was streamed on JioHotstar and drew a record 185 million viewers and matched the viewership of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2025 final in the process. 

The official data revealed that the event, which began on September 30, reached 446 million viewers in total and overtook the combined audience of the last three Women’s World Cups. India’s maiden win of the event created a massive history in itself, as the popularity and growth increased among the fan base of the country.

See Also: “Understanding of cricket…”- Mohammed Kaif makes shocking claim on Virat Kohli for not signing commercial contract

The final, which was played last Sunday, saw a peak of nearly 21 million as the Harmanpreet-led side became the first Asian side to lift the Women’s World Cup trophy. India’s win over Australia sparked nationwide celebrations, which capped off the campaign with a fair share of highs and lows.

ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final creates new history in digital viewership

In another milestone for that, 92 million viewers watched the final on TV, as the figure has equaled the connected TV viewership of both the Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and the Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 finals. The numbers display how digital and large-screen streaming has become central to the game.

India crowned the world champions as the focus will now shift to the upcoming 2026 season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) next year. While they returned home, all of their players got a warm welcome and loud cheer among the fans, along with several celebratory victory parades.

The players met the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and were welcomed back home with packed crowds and grand ceremonies. If the tournament is to be seen as precedent for what’s to come for the sort, then it can be said that the game would grow again.

While the Indian team is ready to start their journey in the Asia Cup 2025, a former Indian captain and one of the heroes of the Indian cricket team that won the 1983 Cricket World Cup, is unhappy with the team and feels that the Men in Blues can't defend the Men's T20 World Cup trophy in the upcoming edition. 

Suryakumar Yadav-led India are ready for the Asia Cup 2025, which will be played in T20I format, a preparation for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which India and Sri Lanka will host in next year's February and March. Apart from co-hosting the next T20 World Cup, India will also defend the title, as they won the last T20 World Cup (2024) in West Indies and USA, which was their second T20 World Cup title after winning its inaugural edition in 2007. 

See Also: Why no Shreyas Iyer in Asia Cup 2025 squad?

There is no chance of winning the T20 World Cup with this bunch: Krishnamachari Srikkanth

Former Indian captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth, who was the highest run-scorer in India's victorious 1983 World Cup Final against West Indies, feels that India may win the upcoming Asia Cup, but they can't win the next T20 World Cup with this team.

Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel, “We might win the Asia Cup with this team, but there is no chance of winning the T20 World Cup with this bunch. Are you going to take this team to the World Cup? Is this the preparation for the T20 World Cup, which is hardly six months away?” 

While Indian Test captain and ODI vice-captain Shubman Gill has been included in the Asia Cup squad as a vice-captain, Srikkanth is unhappy with the vice-captaincy exclusion from the all-rounder Axar Patel. He is also unhappy with the selections of Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, and Harshit Rana.

Srikkanth questioned, “They have gone backwards. Axar Patel has been axed from vice-captaincy. I don’t know how Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, and Harshit Rana have come in. IPL is considered the main criterion for selection, but the selectors seem to have considered performances before that.” 

Who will bat at No. 5? 

The former Indian captain has questioned the no.5 batting position, while he is also disappointed with the non-inclusion of the Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Srikkanth added, “Who will bat at No. 5? Five has to be either Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma or Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh. Hardik Pandya usually bats at No. 5, so now, Axar cannot bat at six. I can’t understand how they picked Dube. Yashasvi Jaiswal has performed in international cricket and IPL as well. What does he do?” 

Cricketing eyes will turn to Oman this October as the Gulf nation hosts the all-important ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia and East Asia-Pacific Qualifier. The event will determine three spots at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

A total of nine teams, including some experienced campaigners and rising forces, will descend on Oman for a 10-day tournament that runs from 8 to 17 October. The line-up features hosts Oman, fellow Asian sides Nepal, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Malaysia, and East Asia-Pacific challengers Papua New Guinea, Japan, and Samoa. Four of these teams, Oman, Nepal, UAE, and PNG, have played on the T20 World Cup stage before and will be keen to return.

The teams are split into three groups of three:

• Group 1: UAE, Malaysia, Qatar
• Group 2: Nepal, Kuwait, Japan
• Group 3: Oman, Papua New Guinea, Samoa

ALSO SEE: Future of Asia cup at risk? ACC metting scheduled

Asia and East Asia-Pacific teams set for fierce T20 World Cup qualifying battles in Oman and Fiji

From October 12 to 17, the top two teams from each group advance to the Super Six stage. The top three finishers will then receive their tickets to the T20 World Cup. With the integration of the Asia and East Asia-Pacific regions into a single qualifying competition, this event marks a significant milestone in the ICC's redesigned pathway structure. It also gives associate nations a chance to demonstrate their advancements and assert their place at the international cricket table.

In the meantime, the ICC Women's T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier for women will be held in Suva, Fiji, from September 9–15. In the Global Qualifier for England 2026, eight teams, including the hosts Fiji, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Japan, Samoa, the Cook Islands, and the Philippines, will compete for a single spot. Both tournaments promise fierce competition and gripping tales on the path to cricket's biggest stages, with a lot on the line and nations eager for a breakthrough.

Cricket, a game with a worldwide fan base, is enjoyed through a range of tournaments that enthrall audiences across formats. From the traditional Ashes to the contemporary T20 extravaganzas, these tournaments present the best of the sport. Here's a glimpse of the world's top 10 most popular cricket tournaments, ranked according to their stature, viewership, and cultural influence.

1. ICC Men's Cricket World Cup (50-over): 

The ICC Cricket World Cup, held every four years, is the pinnacle of One Day International (ODI) cricket. Since its inception in 1975, the tournament has become a global sporting spectacle, drawing massive audiences across the world. The 2023 edition further cemented its legendary status, with Australia emerging as champions. This edition attracted over a billion viewers, highlighting the tournament’s immense popularity and cultural impact. With intense competition, passionate fans, and unforgettable moments, the World Cup remains cricket’s most iconic and prestigious event on the international stage.

2. The Ashes (Test Series): 

The Ashes was a name given to the Test cricket series played between England and Australia, two of cricket's biggest rivals, with an illustrious and historical history dating back to 1882. The Ashes is a traditional series with fierce rivalries between England and Australia, with an interesting history. Test matches make for some of the best rivalries in sport, and The Ashes is full of twists and turns, tells tales of intense encounters, contains many memorable moments, and brings out passionate fans across the world. With a colourful history and high stakes, The Ashes series is loved by experts and fans, representing the highest level of Test cricket and the intense rivalry between two of cricket's greatest nations.

3. Indian Premier League (IPL): 

Since its start dates back in 2008, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has developed into a global T20 behemoth by combining the finest international players with
India's best. Famously nicknamed the league of 'T20 cricket with Bollywood,' the IPL is known for its fast-paced matches and thick crowd following, where it has included a significant portion of financial success in the world of sports. The 2025 season, which resumed play on May 17 after its brief pause, is not just pulling the biggest numbers in viewership but pulling millions of people on the ground and online to witness the grand showcase. The IPL is unique in the sense that it combines a mix of fun and top-tier cricket that cannot be replicated within the breadth of global cricketing sensations.

See Also: IPL 2025: Qualification Scenario for Gujarat Titans (GT)

4. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (Test Series):

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which takes place every two years between India and Australia, is one of the fiercest rivalries in Test cricket. This name connects to legends Sunil Gavaskar and Allan Border, and has created a strong fan following due to the fierce competition, outstanding cricket, and contributions to the World Test Championship standings. This series has had its share of outstanding Test matches and notable moments, and draws large audiences and prestige. It demonstrates the strength, passion, and resilience of two of the strongest teams in world cricket.

5. ICC Men's T20 World Cup:

First held in 2007, this biennial cricket event has rapidly grown into a global spectacle. Known for its fast-paced, thrilling matches, it appeals especially to younger audiences who enjoy the excitement of the shorter format. The 2024 edition, jointly hosted by the West Indies and the USA, saw record-breaking attendance and massive viewership, cementing its place as one of cricket’s most popular tournaments. With each passing edition, it continues to gain momentum, showcasing explosive talent and high-stakes drama that captivates fans across the world.

6. ICC Women's Cricket World Cup:

Held every four years, the Women’s 50-over World Cup has steadily grown in stature, showcasing the finest talent in women’s cricket. Featuring top international players, the tournament has become a major event on the global sporting calendar. The 2022 edition in New Zealand highlighted the rising popularity and competitiveness of women’s cricket, drawing significant viewership and media attention. As more nations invest in developing their women’s teams, the tournament continues to deliver thrilling contests and inspiring performances, further elevating the profile of women’s cricket on the world stage.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Sunil Gavaskar's emotional urge to BCCI after tragic Pahalgam attack

7. Pakistan Super League (PSL):

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has become one of the premier T20 cricket leagues in the world since its inception in 2016. The 2025 season, which began on February 16 and concluded on May 25, has entertained fans with stars like Babar Azam and Shadab Khan. With high domestic and international viewership, the PSL has helped rejuvenate interest in cricket in Pakistan, while also highlighting emerging local talent. The league has seen intense competition, high production value, and a loyal following in both Pakistan and abroad.

8. Big Bash League (BBL):

Since its launch in 2011, Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) has rapidly grown into a major T20 domestic competition. Known for its vibrant and festive atmosphere, the BBL offers an exciting platform for young and emerging players to showcase their skills on a big stage. The league’s high-energy matches and family-friendly environment attract large crowds and TV audiences every season. By blending top-notch cricket with entertainment, the BBL has become a beloved event in Australia’s sporting calendar, helping to develop future stars while providing thrilling action for fans across the country.

9. Caribbean Premier League (CPL):

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) was created in 2013, bringing T20 excitement to the Caribbean. T20 matches enjoyed by star players such as Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell brought international praise and attention quickly to the CPL for the excitement of the matches and the vibrancy of the island and its culture. With the CPL, high-quality cricket is joined with the colourful and vibrant Caribbean people and culture. The region is passionate about cricket, its clubs, and their celebrations are unmatched inside and outside on the streets of their homeland. Additionally, the CPL contains eventful displays of cricket that involve local funding resources and cricketers inside entertaining and vibrant matches, plus the unique experiences of Caribbean islands as a part of the game which nobody else can. The CPL has transitioned to becoming one of the main events on cricket's annual calendar of cricket, celebrates the best local talents, while providing entertaining cricket that represents the soul of the iCaribbean islands.

10. Asia Cup: 

Every two years since 1984, the Asia Cup, a regional giant dominated by India and Pakistan, has been a biennial ODI and T20 competition. The 2025 version promises to be a highlight. This series, covering Test, ODI, and T20 formats, speaks volumes about cricket's expansive popularity and its power to engage one billion-plus people across the globe.

The world of cricket is never short of drama and surprises. In the latest twist, Australia’s star fast bowler, Mitchell Starc, has opened up about his exclusion from the Super 8 fixture against Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup 2024. Starc’s benching to make way for Ashton Agar was a controversial decision that sparked widespread debate among fans and experts alike.

Exclusion from the match against Afghanistan

The decision to bench Starc in the crucial Super 8 match against Afghanistan was surprising. The team management opted to bring in left-arm spinner Ashton Agar, hoping his spin would be more effective given the conditions.

See Also: BCCI overlooks Kohli, consults Hardik Pandya for Gambhir’s new role: Report

Ashton Agar’s performance in the match was commendable. He bowled economically, giving away just 17 runs in his four overs and successfully containing the Afghan batters during the middle overs. Despite his efforts, Australia failed to capitalize and ended up losing the match by 21 runs.

Australia’s exit

Australia’s early departure from the T20 World Cup were disappointing for fans and the team alike. Several factors contributed to this outcome, including strategic decisions, player performances, and perhaps a bit of bad luck. Analyzing the statistical performance of the team provides insight into what went wrong.

Mitchell Starc’s perspective

In a candid discussion on the WillowTalk podcast, Starc shared his thoughts on being left out of the playing XI. He explained that the decision was based on the pitch conditions and the effectiveness of spin bowling in previous matches at the venue.

“They saw previous games on that ground with spin playing a part and obviously Ash and the left-armer enticing them to make a change,” Starc said on the WillowTalk podcast.

Criticism of Pre-tournament seedings

Starc also voiced his criticism regarding the pre-tournament seedings. He argued that Australia’s position did not reflect their capabilities and affected their group stage matchups. Analyzing the seeding process and its impact on the tournament’s outcomes sheds light on potential areas for improvement.

Another point of contention was the scheduling of the matches. Australia’s schedule, which included late-night arrivals and early games, was far from ideal. These logistical issues likely impacted the players’ performance and preparation.

“We finished ahead of England and end up where we were pre-seeded as the second side. All of a sudden, you’re in a different group. We had the two night games and the third was a day game, so it wasn’t the best preparation. We had a delayed flight out of St Vincent, a 90-minute drive from the airport to the hotel in St Lucia, our players got in late by night and then a 10 o’clock toss,” he added.

Starc’s tournament performance

Despite the controversies, Starc’s performance in the tournament was a mix of highs and lows. He took five wickets in as many games, but his economy rate and average were not up to his usual standards.

India’s cricket team, fresh off their thrilling T20 World Cup victory, finally landed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi in the early hours of Thursday. The journey back was marred by delays due to Hurricane Beryl, but the team’s triumphant return made it all worthwhile.

The Journey home

After their pulse-pounding seven-run victory against South Africa at the Kensington Oval in Barbados, the Indian cricket team, their families, coaching staff, and BCCI officials found themselves stranded due to Hurricane Beryl. The hurricane led to a shutdown of airports in the Caribbean, leaving the team in Bridgetown for five additional days.

See Also: Watch: Team India’s special jersey celebrating T20 World Cup glory

The BCCI sprang into action, arranging a special charter flight once the airport reopened. This flight was crucial to bring the World Cup heroes back home safely and swiftly.

Triumphant arrival in New Delhi

The special charter flight, dubbed AIC24WC — Air India Champions 24 World Cup — took off from Barbados at 4:50 am local time on Wednesday and touched down in New Delhi at 6 am IST on Thursday after a grueling 16-hour non-stop journey. The energy on board was electric, and upon landing, the team was met with a hero’s welcome.

Hundreds of supporters, undeterred by the early hour and the weather, gathered at the airport to welcome their champions. They held placards, waved the national flag, and chanted “India, India!” as the players emerged from the arrivals area, their gold medals gleaming.

Inside the Long Flight

The 16-hour flight from Barbados to New Delhi was filled with camaraderie and celebration. The BCCI shared glimpses of the journey, showcasing the high spirits of the players. Special announcements were made by the Air India pilot to thank the team for ending India’s long wait for a World Cup victory.

Midway through the journey, a heartfelt announcement was made to honor head coach Rahul Dravid, who will no longer be part of the Indian dressing room. This gesture was a poignant reminder of the contributions and dedication of the support staff.

Players’ interaction during the flight

Despite the long journey, the players, including captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain Hardik Pandya, and star batter Suryakumar Yadav, mingled with their families and support staff. They made their way into the economy section to chat with others, reflecting the unity and familial atmosphere within the team.

Player of the tournament, Jasprit Bumrah, was even seen babysitting his son Angad, ensuring the long flight was enjoyable for everyone. This sense of camaraderie and personal connection was evident throughout the journey.

BCCI’s gesture to Journalists

In a special gesture, the BCCI also included 20-odd Indian sports journalists who had been stranded in the Caribbean. These journalists were given the opportunity to hold the T20 World Cup trophy and take photos, marking a memorable moment for the media personnel.

Upon landing, the team proceeded to the ITC Maurya Hotel, where a grand welcome awaited them. Special preparations had been made to ensure the team’s comfort and to celebrate their victory.

Meeting with PM Narendra Modi

A significant highlight of the team’s return was their scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This meeting was a formal recognition of the team’s achievement, celebrating their dedication and skill on the global stage.

Roadshow in Mumbai

Following their time in Delhi, the team was set to fly to Mumbai for a grand roadshow. This victory parade was planned from Marine Drive to Wankhede Stadium, with an expected massive turnout of fans eager to celebrate their cricketing heroes.

The 1 km victory parade was organized to allow fans to cheer for the team and celebrate their victory. The route from Nariman Point to Wankhede Stadium was lined with fans, waving flags and expressing their pride.

India’s cricketing fraternity is buzzing with excitement as the Men in Blue returned home victorious from the T20 World Cup. Adding to the jubilation, team Indian wear a special jersey designed to commemorate this monumental achievement. This new jersey not only marks their recent victory but also bridges a glorious past with a promising future.

India’s journey to the Title

The road to the T20 World Cup final was nothing short of spectacular. The Indian team, led by Rohit Sharma, showcased exceptional skill and determination. Key moments included breathtaking performances from Suryakumar Yadav and decisive captaincy from Rohit Sharma. Each match was a testament to the team’s perseverance and strategy, culminating in a thrilling final against South Africa.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: Catches by SKY and Axar included in ICC’s best catches for the tournament

The Homecoming

The victorious squad’s return to India were met with overwhelming enthusiasm. The team arrived at New Delhi airport on a specially-arranged charter flight, greeted by thousands of jubilant fans.

As the team emerged from the arrivals area, they were met with deafening cheers and chants of “India, India.” The players, adorned with their gold medals, waved and smiled at the adoring crowd. The airport scene was a vibrant mix of national pride and personal joy as fans celebrated their champions.

Unveiling the Special Jersey

In the midst of this celebration, Sanju Samson shared the first glimpse of a special jersey on Instagram. This new jersey features a significant update: a second star above the BCCI logo, symbolizing India’s second T20 World Cup win. The word “champions” is boldly emblazoned across the front, serving as a proud reminder of their hard-fought victory.

Significance of the second star

The addition of the second star is deeply symbolic. It pays homage to India’s first T20 World Cup triumph under MS Dhoni’s captaincy in 2007. This design choice connects the past and present, reflecting a legacy of triumph and resilience. It’s a nod to the journey the team has undergone and the milestones they’ve achieved along the way.

Meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi

After their grand welcome, the team headed to the ITC Maurya Hotel for a brief rest. Special arrangements had been made to ensure their comfort and to prepare them for their next big event: a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Post the meeting, the team was scheduled to board a special flight to Mumbai. Their arrival in Mumbai was eagerly anticipated, with fans ready to continue the celebrations.

Victory parade in Mumbai

In Mumbai, the BCCI had organized a 1 km victory parade from Nariman Point to Wankhede Stadium. This parade was expected to draw massive crowds, eager to celebrate their cricketing idols. The route was lined with fans, ready to cheer and applaud the champions.

The celebrations would culminate in a grand ceremony at Wankhede Stadium. The event included felicitation of the players and support staff, speeches, and a display of the T20 World Cup trophy. It was a fitting end to a day of celebrations.

India’s triumphant return as T20 World Cup champions after defeating South Africa in the final has sparked nationwide celebrations. The team’s arrival in New Delhi was met with euphoric fans, marking the beginning of a jubilant homecoming for the cricketing heroes.

The Journey of Homecoming

The Indian team’s journey back from the Caribbean were delayed due to Hurricane Beryl, but the anticipation only heightened the excitement. After a long wait, the players finally touched down in New Delhi, bringing with them the glittering T20 World Cup trophy.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: Catches by SKY and Axar included in ICC’s best catches for the tournament

The scene at the airport was electrifying. Despite the monsoon rain, fans gathered in large numbers, chanting “India, India” as they awaited their heroes. The players, adorned with gold medals, walked out to a roaring reception. Vice-captain Hardik Pandya, sporting a Caribbean hat, was the first to emerge, followed by captain Rohit Sharma who proudly held the trophy aloft.

Heroes’ welcome at ITC Maurya Hotel

Special arrangements were made at the ITC Maurya Hotel to welcome the team. As the players arrived, they were greeted by the rhythmic beats of dhols. Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya danced with the trophy, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The hotel lobby was adorned with a special cake to honor the champions.

Individual Highlights

Rohit Sharma’s leadership throughout the tournament was pivotal, and his triumphant entry with the trophy was a moment to behold. Hardik Pandya’s charismatic presence energized the crowd, and Suryakumar Yadav, fresh off his stunning catch in the final, was a fan favorite.

Virat Kohli, whose hometown is Delhi, received some of the loudest cheers. His broad smile and waves to the crowd captured the joy of the moment. Rishabh Pant, another local star, was the first to enter the hotel, greeted by enthusiastic fans and staff.

Special celebrations

The celebrations included traditional bhangra dancing, with Rohit, Surya, and Hardik leading the way. The joyous atmosphere was infectious, and even those who didn’t dance were seen smiling and clapping along. The special cake in the lobby was a sweet tribute to the team’s achievement.

Meet with PM Narendra Modi

The team was scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later that day. This interaction was not only a formal felicitation but also a moment of national pride. The Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of their victory added to the significance of the win.

Victory parade in Mumbai

Following their stay in New Delhi, the team set to travel to Mumbai for a victory parade. The parade, starting from Nariman Point and ending at Wankhede Stadium. Fans in Mumbai were eager to join the celebrations and show their support.

This victory ended an 11-year drought for global cricket trophies for India, with their last win being the Champions Trophy in 2013. The 2011 World Cup victory at home, under the captaincy of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, was the last time India held the coveted trophy. This win revived memories of past glories and ignited hopes for future successes.