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Rohit Sharma’s Team India has basked in celebration over the past 36 hours following their triumphant return to the nation on Thursday, July 4. The newly crowned T20 champions were honored on Friday by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in a short but memorable ceremony at his office in Mumbai.
Grand Welcome and Felicitation by the CM Eknath Shinde
On their return to Mumbai, Rohit Sharma and his squad received a hero’s welcome from the adoring crowd. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde took time out from a busy Assembly session to honor the team, meeting with key players including local hero Rohit Sharma and rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal. The players were greeted with shawls and idols of Lord Ganesha, a traditional gesture of respect and blessing. CM Shinde also announced a substantial cash prize of INR 110 million ($1.32 million) for the victorious squad.
Notably, a few team members were absent from the ceremony, having already departed Mumbai. Among the absentees was star player Virat Kohli, who had reportedly left for London overnight to be with his family.
BCCI’s Fitting Reception at Wankhede Stadium
In addition to the felicitation by the Chief Minister, Team India was celebrated in a grand ceremony at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials, including Secretary Jay Shah, President Roger Binney, Vice President, and Treasurer Ashish Shelar, were present to honor the team. The players received a cheque for INR 1.25 billion ($15 million) and were welcomed with open arms by the gathered fans.
Following the formalities, the players took a victory lap around the stadium, handing out signed balls to the excited fans and proudly displaying the T20 World Cup Trophy.
Meeting with the Prime Minister
Before they arrived in Mumbai, the team had visited the residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi early on Thursday morning. The Prime Minister extended a grand welcome to the team, acknowledging their remarkable achievement on the world stage.
Parade Through Mumbai
The team’s journey continued from the airport to Marine Drive, where they boarded an open-roof bus. Fans lined the streets to catch a glimpse of their heroes, cheering them on as the bus made its way to Wankhede Stadium. The open-roof bus parade was a testament to the team’s popularity and the nation’s love for cricket.
Conclusion
The past 36 hours have been a whirlwind of celebrations for Team India and their fans. From the grand welcome in New Delhi to the vibrant parade and ceremonies in Mumbai, the nation has come together to honor the champions of the T20 World Cup. As the festivities wind down, the players will undoubtedly cherish these moments of recognition and adulation, reflecting on their hard-earned victory and the support of a cricket-loving nation.
