India emerged as the champion of the T20 World Cup 2024 with an exciting victory over South Africa. This win was particularly notable as Virat Kohli announced his retirement from T20 internationals. India set a strong target of 176, led by Kohli's brilliant half-century, his first in the tournament. Despite early losses of Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant, Kohli's steady performance, along with crucial contributions from Shivam Dube and Axar Patel, guided India to a formidable total.
Prize Money for Winners and Runner-Up
The winners of the T20 World Cup, India, received a significant prize of $2.45 million. The runner-up, South Africa, was awarded $1.28 million. These substantial financial rewards added to the excitement and motivation for all teams participating in the tournament.
Total Prize Pool and Rewards for Other Teams
The ICC set a record total prize pool of $11.25 million for this edition of the T20 World Cup. The semi-finalists, England and Afghanistan, each received $787,500. Teams that were eliminated in the second round earned $382,500 each, while those finishing between ninth and twelfth places got $247,500 each. Teams ranked from thirteenth to twentieth were awarded $225,000 each. Additionally, each match won, excluding the semi-finals and finals, earned teams an extra $31,154. This comprehensive prize distribution ensured significant financial rewards based on team performance throughout the tournament.
South Africa's Resilient Chase
South Africa's chase started with early losses, including Hendricks to a brilliant delivery by Jasprit Bumrah and Markram for a low score. However, Tristan Stubbs showcased his skill against the spinners, putting South Africa in a strong position after the powerplay. Despite Stubbs' dismissal, Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen formed a crucial partnership. Klaasen aggressively attacked, scoring a 23-ball fifty and hitting 24 runs in a single over off Axar Patel.
India's Bowling Comeback
With 30 runs needed from the last five overs, India's bowlers staged a remarkable comeback. Hardik Pandya dismissed Klaasen, and Bumrah took out Jansen, increasing the pressure on South Africa. Arshdeep Singh bowled an exceptional penultimate over, conceding just four runs. Pandya sealed the game in the final over, securing India's victory by seven runs.
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