History was rewritten on 2nd April 2011 by the World Cup 2011 Champions….by our bleeding blue cricketers. I remember dad, my uncle’s always talking about the 1983 WC win and finally millions of people wishes came true after a 28 yr long period, Congratulation Team India!!
The entire WC11 tournament was a period when all people be it any caste, creed only wished that World Cup comes to India. That was the period when literally India’s heartbeat stopped only to watch the victorious win. You go anywhere, you could only hear about cricket, player’s performance, etc. All wanted Indians to win this WC11 just for God of Cricket “Sachin” wish come true, that was a tribute to the iconic guy.
I still remember the 2003 World cup finals between India and Australia…the most memorable one. I had my 10th Exams and was in front of the TV just watching the finals, mom was very unhappy with me and that turned more disastrous with India losing the match. Since then I lost all hopes and never took interest in cricket, thanks to my scores in 10th Exams. My mom always reminds me of the Crazy “me” and I never followed Cricket…. :(
It was only this time especially after I saw the same crazy people around me talking about WCC11 that I started following it. But the match against South Africa where we lost the almost won match, I felt this was the blow India really needed. It’s not good (especially for we Indians) to keep winning continuously, you get boosted off and you lose the concentration. I believe that was the match which helped the players tighten up their socks and play the knock out matches cautiously.
I remember when India won the quarters, when asked about the India-Pakistan knock out in semis, Dhoni coolly said “It is just another ODI match for us and we gotto give our best in it.” The semis was a hyped up situation for the players. People said “You don’t win the finals, doesn’t matter much, but Indians cannot lose against Pakistan.” Hats off to our great Cricketers, they played a flawless game, their bowling and fielding amazed all….. that was a true Champions game, which left even the Aussies and many competitive countries support India in the Finals…. :) I remember this day, the match being on weekday, many took leave from office just to watch India win the game, none on the streets from kids to elders all in front of the TV, what an awesome feeling….. :D
Then came 2nd April, finals against Srilanka that too in Wankhede stadium, Mumbai, Sachin’s hometown. Another match of outstanding bowling and fielding innings by Indian players; but when Sehwag and Sachin got out early, I said mom that we are losing and I don’t want the 2003 instance to repeat but there was a ray of hope and kept the patience. Gambhir’s patience and dedication kept that hope intact till the end of the match, he was the true foundation layer (Wish he could complete his century). Dhoni played a Captain’s league and batted in his “desi” style to the Victory path. He simply grabbed the cup from the lankan’s hands and cant forget his Winning Sixer shot, what could we ask for more?
Each and every player in the team deservers to hold the World Cup11. Everyone has contributed and together they stand as World Class Champions!! Not to forget our couch Gary Kirsten who says “India has to remain at the top of world cricket” Amen!!
I am going to cherish this ever and I am glad I can proudly tell the next generation to come that we were World Champion in WC11…. :) Congratulations Team India !!
