In a thrilling final of the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, India clinched victory over South Africa by seven runs, thanks to a mix of smart cricketing strategy and crucial performances. Reflecting on the tense moments of the match, Team India captain Rohit Sharma credited wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for a decisive move that helped disrupt the rhythm of the South African batters.

South Africa, chasing 177, was in a strong position with Heinrich Klaasen in blistering form. With only 26 runs needed off 24 balls and plenty of wickets in hand, the game was slipping away from India. But as Klaasen looked ready to seal the win, Rishabh Pant made a tactical decision that shifted the momentum in India's favor.

Rohit revealed that Pant called for a medical time-out, claiming a knee niggle. The Indian physio was called onto the field to attend to Pant, which momentarily halted play. This break, Rohit believes, was critical in unsettling Klaasen’s flow.

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"They had a lot of wickets left and set batters were on the ground. We were feeling the tension, we were scared as well, but a captain needs to have a strong face at that moment. No one knows this but when 30 were needed in 30 [26 in 24], there was a small break. Rishabh Pant used his brains and stopped the game, saying he has a niggle in his knee and started taping it," Rohit revealed.

He continued, "At that moment, the batter wants the ball to be bowled quickly because he is in flow. We needed to break the rhythm. I was setting the field, talking to the bowler, and then I saw Pant on the ground, the physio was there, and Klaasen was waiting for resumption. I'm not saying that was the reason for the win, but it could be. Pant used his brains and we won."

Shortly after play resumed, India struck gold. Hardik Pandya dismissed Klaasen in the 17th over after the South African batter had smashed 52 off 27 balls. Klaasen attempted to hit an off-stump delivery but edged it behind to Pant, who made no mistake with the catch. Klaasen’s wicket triggered a lower-order collapse for South Africa, who ultimately finished at 169/8, handing India the title.