Why 2nd April, 2011 is a Memorable Day for Indian Cricket?
Apr 3, 2018 at 10:01 AM
The date, 2nd April 2011 holds a special place for the Indian cricket enthusiasts, as it witnessed India being crowned the world cup winners of 2011.
MS Dhoni-led side went on to clinch the world title which was hosted in the Indian subcontinent.
As a result, prominent cricketing personalities from the country went on to pay tribute to the most iconic moment of Indian cricket. The likes of Suresh Raina, Virender Sehwag and many others tweeted about the memorable moment for Indian cricket.
The win was India’s second in ODI World Cup competitions. It was also the second World title India won under the leadership of MS Dhoni. MSD’s young brigade also conquered the turf of South Africa which hosted the World T20 in 2007.
India’s win was even more special, as Sachin Tendulkar was finally rewarded with a World Cup which he eagerly desired after participating in five previous tournaments. Also, the final was hosted where it all started for Sachin, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Therefore, life took a full circle, as Sachin’s World Cup career came to at the same ground, but this time with the highly anticipated silverware.
When asked about the most special moment in his eventful career, Sachin names this very win which took place seven years back as the best.
The other protagonist of the glorious folklore was the man of the tournament Yuvraj Singh. Yuvi was also part of the World Cup-winning squad of 2007. Although, this time, his efforts were superhuman.
Yuvraj Singh battled with cancer throughout the tournament, as his ailment was diagnosed much later. Throughout his knock against West Indies, Yuvraj was seen puking on the field, unable to run the hard and singles.
India’s World Cup win is a conglomeration of various emotions, story and inspirations attached to it. Another story associated with the win is the role Gautam Gambhir played in the finals.
It is said had Gautam Gambhir scored those three runs in the finals, his career would have taken a different route. Gambhir was instrumental in two World Cup wins for India in the finals.
Gambhir set up Indian win against Pakistan at Jo’burg in 2007. With quick wickets of Sachin and Sehwag, India was in a spot of bother while chasing the Lankan target.
However, Gambhir’s gritty 97 helped consolidate the Indian innings with support from Kohli and Dhoni later. It was only due to the brilliance of Dhoni’s knock in the end which eclipsed Gambhir’s effort and even Mahela Jayawardena’s earlier in the day.
The win is also remembered by Sachin taking the lap of honour around his beloved Wankhede, riding over the shoulders of the young Indian team-mates.
“He has been carrying the weight of the nation for 20 years, its time we carried him on his shoulders,” famously quoted Virat Kohli.
Here’s how others reacted
One of the greatest moments for Cricket lovers of this generation. Gambhir and Dhoni on that night 7 years ago took us to a glory , a night to never forget and Sachin Paaji had his hands on the World Cup after waiting for 22 years. pic.twitter.com/hblgT4ly1t
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) April 2, 2018
7 years ago, 15 Indians and a South African did it for a Billion people. #WorldCup2011👌✌️ pic.twitter.com/0wS1H0TkRB
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) April 2, 2018
Who can forget the contribution of @YUVSTRONG12 in India's triumph over Sri Lanka. A truly magnificent tournament got him the 'Man of the tournament' award #OnThisDay #LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi #KXIP #WorldCup2011 pic.twitter.com/KZfp7ktM0P
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 2, 2018
The one day that will remain a fond memory for each member of the team and the fans till our last breath. 7 years from the historic day when India won the World Cup 2011. pic.twitter.com/tCWdczOeVE
— Yusuf Pathan (@iamyusufpathan) April 2, 2018
Moment of a lifetime, this day 7 years ago, a billion people erupted in joy. What a night! What were you doing that night ? pic.twitter.com/w1Nd3c7jrb
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) April 2, 2018
Also Read:
India vs Australia 2017: You Have To Play 100 Percent To Beat India In These Conditions: Aaron Finch
NZ vs ENG 2018: Test Series Win Would be Very Special – Craig McMillan