Hardik Pandya scripts a redemption story like no other, comes in clutch to help India win second T20 World Cup

A three-wicket haul in the final of the T20 World Cup saw Hardik Pandya become the unlikely hero for the Indian side, with the all-rounder grabbing the crucial wicket of Heinrich Klassen in the 17th over of the game.

With the game at a tipping point, Pandya came into bowl with South Africa needing 30 runs off 30 balls to get their hands on a maiden World Cup trophy. The Mumbai Indians skipper bowled three overs - including the final over - giving away just 20 runs. The three wickets he took were of David Miller, Kagiso Rabada and the aforementioned Klassen, who was on an explosive innings, ending with 52 runs off 27 balls.

Pandya, who has been under intense scrutiny over the past six months for his leadership of the Mumbai IPL team, said after the game, "things haven't been easy but I knew if I worked hard, I will get success."

The all-rounder has been in a public perception battle over the past months, after he took over the captaincy of the Mumbai Indians team from current India captain Rohit Sharma and failed to lead the franchise to the knockouts of the Indian Premier League.

Pandya - booed for being handed IPL captaincy - broke down, having endured a tough six months and the enduring picture would certainly be the kiss planted on his cheeks by the man, people rooted for - the captain himself, Rohit Sharma.

Rohit, his eyes glistening, was on his haunches as he was emotionally exhausted, celebrating with his wife Ritika, who was also among the many family members overcome with emotion.

Pandya, much maligned by his own supporters for past six months, was able to defend 16 runs in the final over to ensure India's first ICC trophy since 2013 and a maiden T20 World Cup crown in the post-IPL era. In response to India's 176 for seven, South Africa ended at 169 for eight.