The 2011 Cricket World Cup final – a day that will be etched in the memories of Indian fans forever. It was on this day that MS Dhoni’s team created history by defeating Sri Lanka in the final. The stage was set at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, with India looking to win their second World Cup title.
A Thrilling Start
Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat first, scoring 274 runs thanks to Mahela Jayawardene’s century. India’s bowlers, including Zaheer Khan and Yuvraj Singh, picked up two wickets each. When India began their chase, they lost Virender Sehwag early to Lasith Malinga. The pressure was on, but Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli steadied the ship with a partnership of 83 runs.
A Pivotal Partnership
After Kohli’s departure, Gambhir teamed up with MS Dhoni to add 109 runs to the board. Gambhir’s 97 runs off 122 balls laid the foundation for India’s win. His partnership with Dhoni turned the game in India’s favor. When Gambhir finally fell, India was in a strong position.
Dhoni took charge, scoring 91 runs off 79 balls. He remained unbeaten, hitting the winning six off Nuwan Kulasekara. The Indian team erupted in joy, with players hugging each other and crying tears of happiness. It was a moment of pure elation, with the entire nation celebrating India’s second World Cup title.
Happy birthday @msdhoni!
Re-live his winning six that clinched India the @cricketworldcup title in 2011! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/ApdkX8W5dh
— ICC (@ICC) July 7, 2018
The 2011 World Cup-winning team was a talented bunch, with contributions from Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, Munaf Patel, and Sreesanth. Each player played a crucial role in the team’s success.
Celebrating the Win
The final was a tense affair, with India’s fans on the edge of their seats. When Dhoni hit the winning six, the stadium erupted. Players cried, hugged each other, and took a victory lap. The win sparked widespread celebrations across the country, with fans taking to the streets to rejoice.
The anchor of India’s innings ⚓️@GautamGambhir saved his best for the 2011 final. #CWC11Rewind pic.twitter.com/lLL3bij1nM
— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) April 2, 2021
The 2011 World Cup win was a historic moment for Indian cricket, one that will be remembered for generations to come. It was a testament to the team’s hard work, dedication, and perseverance. The players’ joy and tears of happiness will forever be etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide.