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India’s vice-captain Hardik Pandya shared his thoughts on the memorable victory parade in Mumbai following Team India’s triumphant T20 World Cup 2024 campaign. He expressed immense joy in witnessing the overflowing happiness and enthusiasm among the people, which he described as the ultimate reward.
The Indian National Cricket Team etched its name in history on June 29th by clinching their second T20 World Cup title. Their journey to glory culminated in a resounding victory over South Africa in the 2024 final, marking India’s first ICC title since 2013.
Throughout the tournament, India exhibited a dominant display, winning all matches and achieving the remarkable feat of an undefeated campaign—a first in T20 World Cup history.
A pivotal figure in India’s success was all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who showcased exceptional form with both bat and ball, amassing 144 runs and claiming 11 wickets.
Following their return home, Mumbai hosted a euphoric victory parade for Team India, where the streets overflowed with jubilant supporters celebrating alongside the players. The festivities culminated in a grand felicitation at Wankhede Stadium.
Reflecting on the celebrations, Hardik Pandya recalled his own experience celebrating India’s 2011 World Cup win on Mumbai’s streets and emphasized the honor of now being part of a victorious team a decade later.
In a heartfelt message captured in a BCCI video, Pandya reiterated that playing for India holds unparalleled significance for him, and winning the World Cup is an indelible moment he will cherish forever.
“There will be some cold and cool pictures will be coming out. The iconic guy will be there.”
“I must be on the roads because in 2011 I was on a road. I was doing the same, celebrating the same teams where they came and yeah for me it is more surreal that after 13 years the next trophy which we have got which I celebrated is I am part of that team and it’s Bombay for me eventually where my journey started and yeah this will be more special getting the cup back home.
“And it’s so many people’s hearts full of joy and happiness. I don’t think there is any bigger pleasure or blessing than this. For me playing for the country itself would have been a dream, a blessing, and so much more but you know I have been very fortunate enough to be part of something so amazing which I will remember for the rest of my life and at the same point of time everyone in this group.”
Mumbai did not disappoint. Mumbai was the best – Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya reflected on Team India’s victory parade and highlighted the gratification of bringing joy to people, a goal they diligently pursued. He praised the Mumbai crowd for exceeding their expectations, emphasizing the overwhelming support they received. Expanding on this, he remarked:
“That’s what we work hard for. We work hard to be in this kind of situation and this kind of atmosphere that we can create and this kind of happiness that we can provide. Can’t be more happy than finishing out all the formalities and all the celebrations in Mumbai. Mumbai did not disappoint. Mumbai was the best. Amchi Mumbai. Jai Hind.”
