City erupts in celebration as India defends T20 WC title

Lucknow: Celebrations erupted across the city on Sunday night as cricket fans poured onto the streets after India defeated New Zealand to lift the ICC Men's T20 World Cup ttrophy./India defeated New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad to retain the title, becoming the first team to do so and winning their third T20 WC title. In the heart of the state capital, Hazratganj, which turned into a sea of blue witnessed massive celebrations as thousands of ecstatic fans gathered at the iconic Hazratganj Crossing, waving the tricolour, bursting firecrackers and dancing to the beats of dhol under a sky lit by fireworks. Youngsters climbed onto vehicles chanting "India! India!" while families cheered from the sidewalks. From the old city lanes to Gomti Nagar, streets were filled with bike rallies, firecrackers and waving tri-colours. Enthusiastic supporters gathered at Hazratganj Crossing, many holding cricket bats and the national flag. From Hazratganj to Gomti Nagar, Chowk to Clock Tower and Jankipuram, people of all ages danced to drum beats to celebrate India's victory. Major intersections across the city, including Atal Chowk, 1090 Crossing and Samta Mulak Crossing, witnessed massive crowds as people poured onto the streets to celebrate. From children to senior citizens, residents across the city participated in the celebrations, reflecting a deep emotional connection with the sport. Big screens were installed at several sports complexes and schools where fans gathered to watch the match. Talking to TOI, 14-year-old Mehmood, who watched the match on a big screen at Sports Galaxy Ground, said, "I don't have a television at home and I came from 14 km away to watch Ishan Kishan play on the big screen." He added, "When Abhishek and Sanju Samson started batting, we thought ‘abki baar 300 paar', but after the fall of wickets we only hoped India would still win the trophy—and they did." Sixteen-year-old Sneha, an aspiring cricketer who came to watch Hardik Pandya, said, "India created history by winning consecutive T20 World Cup trophies." Aman Sharma, Astitva and Rahul, wearing blue India jerseys and team caps, chanted "Boom Boom Bumrah". The trio said, "Bumrah is the kingmaker who helped the Indian team in the crucial overs. We are very happy India created this winning record." Sahil Gupta, holding a colour cylinder, shouted, "Ab Holi poori hui hai," and added, "Tirange ke rang ne ab desh ko rang diya." His friend Akash, holding a trophy replica at Hazratganj Crossing, said, "I am a die-hard fan of Sanju Samson. He returned to form and helped the Indian team in important matches."