Background: 28 years of waiting
After 1983, India was looking for the World Cup trophy. In 2003, they reached the finals but were defeated by Australia. In 2007, they were eliminated in the first round itself. In such a situation, the 2011 World Cup was not just a tournament for India, but a battle of emotions.
India started the tournament as co-hosts and from the group stage to the semi-finals, Team India was in great form. Yuvraj Singh was doing wonders with both bat and ball, and Sachin Tendulkar had become an inspiration for every Indian in his sixth World Cup.
Finals day — India vs Sri Lanka, Wankhede Stadium
2 April 2011 — The whole country was glued to the TV. Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Jayawardene scored a brilliant 103 and Sri Lanka set India a target of 275 runs.
India had a bad start – Sehwag was out on zero and after some time Sachin was also out. There was silence in the stadium. Then came Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli. Both handled the innings.
Dhoni’s strategy and Gambhir’s innings
Kohli was out, but captain Dhoni decided to bat before Yuvraj. Gautam Gambhir scored 97 runs and made a crucial partnership with Dhoni.
Dhoni not only captained the team but also batted brilliantly under pressure. Every four and six he hit would fill the stadium with new enthusiasm.
Historic six and India’s victory
With India needing a few runs in the final over, Dhoni hit a huge helicopter shot for a six off Kulasekara – and India became world champions again after 28 years.
“Dhoni finishes off in style!” – Every Indian cricket fan still remembers this line by Ravi Shastri.
Yuvraj Singh – The real hero
Yuvraj was chosen as the best player of the tournament. He made a significant contribution not only in batting but also in bowling. Later it was revealed that he was battling cancer. His courage became an example.
conclusion
The 2011 victory was not just a trophy — it was every Indian’s dream. Dhoni’s captaincy, Gambhir’s courage and the unity of the entire team made that dream come true.