First T20 World Cup Final

India lifted the first ever T20 world cup trophy under the captaincy of MS Dhoni [X.com]

The first T20 World Cup Final on September 24, 2007, featured a high-octane clash between fierce rivals India and Pakistan, delivering an unforgettable climax to the tournament.

This historic final, played at Johannesburg's Wanderers Stadium, not only enthralled cricket fans worldwide but also marked the rise of T20 cricket as a thrilling spectacle.

First T20 World Cup Final History

The paths that India and Pakistan took to reach the first T20 World Cup final were marked by remarkable victories and intense competition.

India's journey to the final was highlighted by a sensational win over Australia in the semi-finals, propelled by Yuvraj Singh's explosive hitting.

On the other hand, Pakistan secured their spot in the final after a convincing win against New Zealand, showcasing their depth in both batting and bowling.

The final match was set against the back of their storied rivalry, adding layers of drama and anticipation.

First T20 World Cup Final Teams

MS Dhoni was appointed captain for the Indian T20 Squad [X.com]

India, captained by the then-relatively new leader MS Dhoni, entered the final with a very young team. Key players included the fiery Yuvraj Singh, whose six sixes in an over became the highlight of the tournament, and the dependable Gautam Gambhir, whose performances were crucial throughout the tournament.

Pakistan, led by Shoaib Malik, featured a formidable lineup with the likes of Misbah-ul-Haq, who played crucial knocks throughout the tournament, and bowlers like Mohammad Asif and Umar Gul, who were instrumental in dismantling opposition batting line-ups.

First T20 World Cup Final Results

The final was a thriller, epitomizing the essence of T20 cricket. India posted a challenging total of 157/5, anchored by Gautam Gambhir's brilliant 75 off 54 balls.

Pakistan's chase was dramatic, with Misbah-ul-Haq nearly steering them to victory. However, in a twist of fate, the match culminated in the final over with Misbah attempting a scoop shot only to be caught out at short fine-leg by Sreesanth, giving India a narrow 5-run victory.

This tense finish provided a perfect end to the tournament, with India emerging as the first-ever T20 World Champions.

First T20 World Cup Final Venue: Wanderers Stadium

Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg witnessed the first T20 World Cup final [X.com]

The Wanderers Stadium, with its electrifying atmosphere and a packed crowd of enthusiastic fans, was the ideal venue for the high-octane final.

Known for its fast pitch and supportive conditions for both batsmen and bowlers, the stadium lived up to its reputation, facilitating a competitive and gripping match that remains etched cricketing history.

First T20 World Cup Final Trophy

MS Dhoni with the ICC T20 World Cup trophy [X.com]

The victory celebrations for India were exuberant and emotional. Lifting the T20 World Cup 2007 Trophy, Dhoni and his team basked in the glory of their hard-fought win, which was celebrated across India with fireworks, parades, and spontaneous gatherings.

This victory not only celebrated India’s win but also signalled the arrival of T20 cricket as a major force in the sporting world.

First T20 World Cup Final: FAQs

Q.1. Which country won the first T20 World Cup?

Answer: India won the first T20 World Cup in 2007.

Q.2. When did India win the T20 World Cup 2007?

Answer: India won the T20 World Cup 2007 on September 24, 2007.

Q.3. Who won the 2011 World Cup?

Answer: India won the 2011 ODI World Cup, held in Wankhede Stadium against Sri Lanka, by 6 wickets. 

Q.4. Which T20 World Cup has India won?

Answer: India has only won a single T20 world cup in 2007, in South Africa. 

Q.5. Who will host the T20 World Cup 2024?

Answer: The host for T20 World Cup 2024 are USA and West Indies.