Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja Commend Mumbai Police for Victory Parade Management

Mumbai, 5th July 2024: Star cricketer Virat Kohli expressed his gratitude to the Mumbai Police for their exceptional crowd control efforts during the victory parade of the T20 World Cup-winning Indian team on Friday. The team received a grand reception upon their return on Thursday after a 16-hour non-stop flight from Barbados.

After being hosted for breakfast by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, the team travelled to Mumbai for a victory parade attended by thousands of fans. The celebrations culminated in a felicitation ceremony at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, where the players danced, shared their thoughts on the triumph that ended an 11-year trophy drought, and took a victory lap.

“Deep respect and heartfelt thanks to all the officers and staff of @MumbaiPolice & @CPMumbaiPolice for doing a phenomenal job during Team India’s Victory Parade. Your dedication and service are highly appreciated. Jai Hind,” Kohli posted on ‘X’.

Kohli, who was named Player of the Match in the seven-run final win over South Africa last Saturday, flew to London early Friday morning after completing the engagements in Mumbai. He announced his retirement from T20 internationals at the end of the final.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also expressed his gratitude to the police force for managing the large crowds at Marine Drive during the celebrations. “Big thank you to Mumbai police. You did a fantastic job last night #realhero,” he posted.

India captain Rohit Sharma, who also announced his T20 international retirement at the end of the World Cup, received an enthusiastic welcome from his neighbours and friends at his Mumbai residence. Amid heavy police presence, Sharma greeted and waved to the fans who gathered to see him. He shared his gratitude with a post on ‘X’ that included the national flag emoji and the words, “…this is for you.”

Senior off-spinner R Ashwin, who was not part of the squad in the Americas, expressed his emotions while watching the celebrations. “Watching all the videos and pictures from the celebrations yesterday in Mumbai just fills my heart. This nation has given and continues to give so much to the sport. Once again, so proud of the champions,” he said.

During the massive fan gathering, at least 11 people were taken to hospitals for minor injuries or dizziness.