World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma expressed that his team's triumph was a 'dream come true' for India, anticipating a grand welcome upon his return home. The T20 victory marked the end of over a decade of disappointment, as India's last World Cup win was in the 50-over format back in 2011.
'The team and I are extremely proud to bring the trophy back to India and are deeply moved by the joy it has brought to everyone at home,' Rohit stated in a social media post on Monday. He also shared a photo of himself lying down, eyes closed, in his blue team uniform, saying, 'This image perfectly captures how I feel right now.' He added, 'I am currently enjoying a dream come true for a billion of us.'
India secured their first global tournament win since the 2013 Champions Trophy by winning a thrilling final by seven runs in Barbados on Saturday. The team's arrival back home was uncertain, with reports suggesting they were delayed in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl. Jay Shah, secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, announced that around 25 team members, coaches, and support staff would share nearly $15 million in prize money, a testament to their 'talent, determination, and sportsmanship.' This bonus is on top of a record tournament prize pool of $11.25 million, from which India will receive $2.45 million.
The cricket-crazy nation celebrated into the night as India won, with fans in blue India shirts taking to the streets in cities including the capital, New Delhi.
