NEW DELHI: "It was god's plan," remarked
Suryakumar Yadav
on Monday, reflecting on his stunning match-defining catch in the
T20 World Cup final
against
South Africa
. His catch has been widely praised for its athleticism, balance, and game awareness.
Speaking briefly to PTI over the phone, the Mumbai cricketer remained modest about his contribution to India's title triumph.
Rohit Sharma's team secured a thrilling seven-run victory over South Africa in the final held in Bridgetown, Barbados on Saturday.
"I am just grateful to be in that moment to do something special for the country...god's plan it was," Suryakumar said when asked about the catch that has become a standout moment from the game.
In a tense finale, South Africa needed 16 runs from the final over with big-hitter David Miller on strike. He connected with a wide full toss from
Hardik Pandya
, but Suryakumar Yadav managed to steady himself just on the ropes, caught the ball, released it as he went over the boundary, and then re-entered the field to complete an astonishing catch.
For many longtime fans, Surya's catch evoked memories of Kapil Dev's legendary catch in the 1983 World Cup final against the formidable West Indies. Kapil had sprinted from mid-on to dismiss Viv Richards with a spectacular catch off Madan Lal's bowling, showcasing exceptional judgment and athleticism.
Surya, at 33 years old, ensured his name would be fondly remembered in Indian cricket lore every time fans recall the dramatic finale in Bridgetown.
Earlier in the match, South Africa had required 30 runs from 30 balls but faltered in familiar fashion, with Hardik Pandya triggering a collapse by dismissing Heinrich Klaasen, who was well-set on 52. The Proteas lost four wickets for just 17 runs, ending their chase at 169/8 in pursuit of 177.
Surya's decision-making and awareness were also praised by India's fielding coach
T Dilip
. His remarkable catch in the T20 World Cup final showcased exceptional skill and presence of mind under pressure.
"When the moment comes, it's his decision and awareness of rope, that's very important, and knowing with confidence that he can throw and come back, it's decision-making at that time, and he got on to that," Dilip had said.
"We fielded like a pack of wolves, as Rahul bhai and Rohit keep saying... Everybody knew their roles but together we hunted every opportunity which came our way leaving no stone unturned," he added.
India's T20 World Cup victory marked the end of an 11-year wait for an ICC title. However, the team is currently stranded in Bridgetown due to a category 4 hurricane that has caused widespread disruption, including a complete shutdown of air services on the island.
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