BARBADOS: Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar said the Indian bowler “saved” Virat Kohli in the final against South Africa in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
India managed to post 177 for Aiden Markram’s side in Barbados, where the pacers were bowled by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya in the last five overs.
Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Manjrekar said Kohli’s 76 put India in a difficult position as the Proteas believed they would finish him off, but their bowlers saved the day and helped them win their first ICC trophy since 2013.
That was before these guys finished. The bowling is almost proven,” said Manjrekar.
He also announced that the bowler will replace Kohli where the batsman scored 128 and won the match for India.
“India lost, 90 percent won [for South Africa]. The full spin saved Virat Kohli’s innings as he played almost half of the innings for 128. My player will be the bowler because he actually won the game for India. Win,” said Manjrekar.
India became the third team after West Indies and England to announce their withdrawal from T20Is under the leadership of two-time T20 World Cup winner Rohit Sharma.
