Introduction: south africa national cricket team vs india national cricket team match scorecard
The stage was set, the energy was electric, and cricket fans around the world were glued to their screens. On June 29, 2024, India and South Africa faced off in the T20 World Cup Final at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. What followed was a heart-pounding contest filled with big hits, turning points, and nerves of steel.
Let’s break down what happened, who stood out, and how India held their nerve in a dramatic finale.
Table of Contents
Match Summary
- Event: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Final 2024
- Venue: Kensington Oval, Barbados
- Toss: India chose to bat
- Result: India won by 7 runs
India’s Innings – Building a Fighting Total
After choosing to bat first, India got off to a rocky start but steadied the ship thanks to the calm brilliance of Virat Kohli and the explosive power of Axar Patel and Shivam Dube.
Key Batting Performers:
- Virat Kohli: Anchored the innings with a classy 76 off 59 balls
- Axar Patel: Lifted the momentum with a quick-fire 47
- Shivam Dube: Added 27 vital runs near the end
India ended with 176/7 in their 20 overs, a score that looked competitive on a slightly tricky pitch.
South Africa’s Bowling – Mixed Results
The Proteas bowled with fire in the first few overs, picking early wickets. However, they couldn’t keep the pressure on once India started to rebuild.
- Anrich Nortje was the pick of the bowlers with 2 wickets for 26 runs
- Keshav Maharaj and Rabada kept things relatively tight, picking up wickets too
- Some loose overs toward the end allowed India to cross 170
South Africa’s Chase – So Close Yet So Far
Chasing 177 in a final is never easy, but South Africa came out swinging. Despite early setbacks, Heinrich Klaasen almost pulled off a miracle with his fearless hitting.
Notable Contributions:
- Quinton de Kock: Steady at the top with 39
- Klaasen: Blazed through with 52 off just 27 balls, including 5 sixes
- Stubbs & Miller: Gave useful support in the middle overs
With 16 runs needed off the last over, the match could have gone either way. But India’s bowlers held firm.
India’s Bowling – Holding Their Nerve
Defending a score in a final comes down to discipline and temperament—and India’s bowling unit showed plenty of both.
- Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh were ice-cold under pressure
- Hardik Pandya picked up 3 crucial wickets, including the dangerous Klaasen
- Though some bowlers leaked runs, India managed to stay on top during key moments
South Africa ended their innings on 169/8, falling just 7 runs short.
Star of the Night
Without a doubt, Virat Kohli stole the show. He was named Player of the Match for his graceful and composed knock. His innings gave India something to defend and lifted the team just when they needed it most.
Match Scorecard Overview
India – 176/7 (20 overs)
- Kohli: 76 (59)
- Axar Patel: 47 (31)
- Shivam Dube: 27 (16)
Top bowlers (SA): Nortje – 2/26, Maharaj – 2/23
South Africa – 169/8 (20 overs)
- Klaasen: 52 (27)
- de Kock: 39 (31)
Top bowlers (India): Hardik – 3/20, Bumrah – 2/18, Arshdeep – 2/20
Final Thoughts
This match had everything—tension, passion, skill, and a thrilling finish. South Africa fought bravely and came within touching distance, but India’s experience and composure made the difference.
For Indian fans, it was a night of pride and celebration. For South Africa, it was heartbreak—but also a sign that they’re strong contenders on the world stage.
This was not just a cricket match. It was a reminder of why we love sports—the drama, the uncertainty, and the magic of moments that stay with us forever.
