Rohit Sharma has credited Rishabh Pant for playing a crucial role in India’s victory over South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 final, though not for his batting or wicket-keeping. During his appearance on Kapil Sharma’s comedy show, Rohit discussed the various elements that contributed to India’s win, including standout performances from players like Suryakumar Yadav and Virat Kohli, as well as excellent bowling in the death overs.Rohit Sharma Shares How Rishabh Pant’s Strategy Led India to Victory Over South Africa in the T20 World Cup Final.
One key factor Rohit highlighted was a strategic move by Pant that helped disrupt South Africa’s rhythm. As the game progressed, with South Africa needing 30 runs from 30 balls, a brief break occurred just before this critical moment. Pant, dealing with a knee injury, cleverly utilized this pause to slow down the pace of the game, which he believed was essential for India’s strategy. Rohit recounted how Pant, who had his knee taped by the physiotherapist, fell to the ground, momentarily halting the match and allowing India to regroup.Rohit Sharma Shares How Rishabh Pant’s Strategy Led India to Victory Over South Africa in the T20 World Cup Final.
Rohit noted that during this break, he was busy setting fields and discussing tactics with the bowlers. The quick pace of the game was favoring South Africa, and Pant’s strategy to slow it down was aimed at breaking their momentum. Although Rohit emphasized that this was not the sole reason for their victory, he acknowledged that Pant’s quick thinking significantly influenced the match’s outcome.
After the break, Hardik Pandya managed to dismiss the dangerous Heinrich Klaasen, which turned the tide further in India’s favor. Despite David Miller posing a threat later in the innings, the pressure started to mount on South Africa in the final overs, allowing India to capitalize on the situation.Rohit Sharma Shares How Rishabh Pant’s Strategy Led India to Victory Over South Africa in the T20 World Cup Final.
Rohit further explained that the Indian players began to sledge their opponents to increase the psychological pressure. While he couldn’t disclose the specifics, he made it clear that such tactics were crucial for their victory. Rohit encouraged his team to express themselves freely, even if it meant incurring fines, as their primary goal was to win the title. This combination of strategy and mental tactics, alongside individual brilliance, contributed to India’s successful campaign in the T20 World Cup.