In the enthralling Men’s T2O World Cup final played at Kensington Oval on Saturday, India overcame South Africa by 7 runs behind a game-winning innings of 76 from stylish player Virat Kohli, who announced his retirement from T20I.

After the game, Kohli remarked, “This was my last T20 World Cup, and this is what we wanted to achieve.” “Things happen after you feel like you can’t run one day. God is awesome, and on the day that counted, I completed the task for the team. Last Twenty Twenty for India, wanted to make the most of it now or never. Rather of putting pressure on the situation, I wanted to lift the cup out of respect. This was an open secret, it’s time for the next generation to take over, some amazing players will take the team forward and keep the flag waving high.”

“Rohit has played nine T20 World Cups, this is my sixth. He deserves it. I wasn’t confident in the last few games, but grateful and humble right now, and I bow my head. It’s been difficult, and the emotions of the game… It’s difficult to hold things back. The emotions will come later,” Virat Kohli concluded.

Rohit Sharma, the captain of India, declared on Sunday that he would be retiring from Twenty20 international cricket after leading his team to victory in Barbados. Shortly after Virat Kohli hung up his boots from the game’s shortest format on Saturday, the captain announced this news to the media.

Rohit, who was instrumental in India’s victorious effort, declared that he would keep playing for the country in Tests and ODIs.

“This was my last (T20I) game as well,” Rohit revealed during the post-match press conference. “No better time to say goodbye to this format. I’ve loved every moment of this. I started my India career playing this format. This is what I wanted, I wanted to win the cup. I wanted this badly. Very hard to put in words. It was a very emotional moment for me. I was very desperate for this title in my life. Happy that we eventually crossed the line.”

His declaration followed India’s triumph in its second T20 World Cup, a success that filled the country with great happiness and pride.

Following the announcement of their retirements from Twenty20 international cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli made way for left-arm spin all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. This came after India defeated South Africa by seven runs in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup.

Jadeja, who had a knee injury that prevented him from participating in the 2022 tournament, announced on Instagram that he will still be playing for his country in ODIs and Tests. I bid adieu to T20 internationals with a heart full of appreciation. I have always given my all for my nation and I will continue to do so in different capacities, much like a proud and unwavering horse.

“Winning the T20 World Cup was a dream come true, a pinnacle of my T20 International career. Thank you for the memories, the cheers, and the unwavering support. Jai hind Ravindrasinh Jadeja,” he said.

“An Era Comes To An End in T20Is! The Aura Will Stay Forever! 2 Legends of the game. Thank you, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli,” BCCI wrote on X.

“Dear @imjadeja, You have performed exceptionally as an all-rounder. Cricket lovers admire your stylish stroke play, spin and superb fielding. Thank you for the enthralling T20 performances over the years. My best wishes for your endeavours ahead,” the tweet by PM Modi on X.