• Source:PTI
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"It was god's plan," Suryakumar Yadav remarked on Monday, reflecting on his remarkable, match-defining catch in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa. This catch is widely celebrated for its perfect execution of athleticism, balance, and game awareness.

In a brief conversation with PTI, the Mumbai-based cricketer modestly downplayed his role in India's title victory. Rohit Sharma's squad triumphed over a formidable South African team by seven runs in the final match 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.

With South Africa needing 16 runs from the final over and the hard-hitting David Miller on strike, Suryakumar pulled off a stunning catch. Miller hit a wide full toss from Hardik Pandya, and Suryakumar, positioned at the ropes, caught the ball, released it just as he was about to step over the boundary, and then stepped back in to complete the catch. This extraordinary effort drew comparisons to Kapil Dev's iconic catch in the 1983 World Cup final against the West Indies, where he ran from mid-on to catch Viv Richards' top edge off Madan Lal's bowling.

Suryakumar, 33, ensured that his name would be remembered every time Indian fans recall the dramatic finale in Bridgetown. Before his catch, the equation stood at 30 runs needed from 30 balls. South Africa, however, collapsed under pressure. Hardik Pandya's crucial wicket of the well-set Heinrich Klaasen for 52 triggered a downfall, with South Africa losing four wickets for 17 runs, ultimately being restricted to 169/8 in their chase of 177.

Before that, the equation was 30 runs from as many balls but South Africa bungled in a typical fashion with Hardik Pandya triggering the collapse, dismissing a well-set Heinrich Klaasen for 52.

The Proteas went on to lose four wickets for 17 runs to be restricted to 169/8 in pursuit of 177.

Suryakumar's decision-making and awareness was also applauded by India's fielding coach T Dilip.

"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 a 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.

The title conquest ended an 11-year wait for an ICC title for India.

The side is currently stranded in Bridgetown due to a category 4 hurricane that has pounded the island leading to a complete shutdown of air services.

Inputs from PTI