India triumphed over South Africa in a nail-biting finish to secure the 2024 T20 World Cup title with a seven-run victory in the final on Saturday. Spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, the Indian bowlers successfully defended a total of 177 set by Virat Kohli's resilient 76 off 59 deliveries. South Africa, chasing 177, appeared in control at 151 for four in 16 overs, with Heinrich Klaasen's 52 off 27 balls and David Miller's 21 off 17 balls at the crease, needing only 26 runs from the last 24 balls. However, Pandya's strategic bowling, including the crucial dismissal of Klaasen, swung the match back in India's favor. Bumrah, later named player-of-the-tournament, delivered a masterful over, followed by a stellar penultimate over from Arshdeep Singh. With South Africa requiring 16 runs in the final over, Pandya sealed the victory by dismissing Miller with a spectacular catch by Suryakumar Yadav at long-on. India restricted South Africa to 169 for eight, ending an 11-year drought for an ICC trophy. This marks India's second T20 World Cup win, following their victory in the inaugural 2007 edition. The previous ICC event win was the 2013 Champions Trophy in England. The triumph also marked a triumphant farewell for outgoing coach Rahul Dravid, who finally achieved success in an ICC tournament final after previous losses to Australia. South Africa's quest for a maiden World Cup title remains unfulfilled, despite Klaasen's valiant performance. Earlier, Kohli's half-century helped India recover from early setbacks to post a competitive 176 for seven. Despite early losses, Kohli and Axar Patel's partnership, along with Shivam Dube's crucial contribution, propelled India's score. South African bowlers Keshav Maharaj and Anrich Nortje each claimed two wickets. Kohli, who had struggled for form leading into the final, delivered a crucial innings, announcing his retirement from T20 internationals after the match. His emotional speech highlighted the importance of the occasion and the need for the next generation to lead the team forward.