In a display of immense gratitude, Indian cricket stars Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja lauded the Mumbai Police for their exemplary crowd control during the grand victory parade celebrating India's T20 World Cup triumph.
The parade, which took place on Thursday, saw lakhs of fans gathering to cheer for their heroes, and the Mumbai Police played a crucial role in ensuring the event was conducted smoothly.
Returning to an ecstatic reception after a 16-hour nonstop flight from Barbados, the team was welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi for breakfast before heading to Mumbai for the victory parade.
The parade concluded with a felicitation ceremony at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, where players shared their thoughts on the victory that ended an 11-year trophy drought, danced, and took a victory lap.
Virat Kohli, who was awarded the player of the match in the final against South Africa, took to social media platform 'X' to express his appreciation.
"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.
The 35-year-old, who announced his retirement from T20 internationals after the final, left for London early Friday morning following the celebrations.
All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also praised the Mumbai Police for their efforts in managing the enormous crowd at Marine Drive. "Big thank you to Mumbai police. You did a fantastic job last night #realhero," he posted.
India's captain, Rohit Sharma, who also announced his retirement from T20 internationals at the end of the World Cup, was greeted with enthusiastic cheers from his neighbors and friends upon returning to his home in Mumbai.
Fans gathered outside his residence, and Sharma, amid heavy police presence, waved and smiled at the crowd. "...this is for you," Sharma posted on 'X', accompanied by the national flag emoji.
Senior off-spinner R Ashwin, though not part of the squad in the Americas, shared his sentiments about 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 remarked.
Despite the festive atmosphere, the massive gathering led to minor injuries and dizziness for at least 11 individuals, who were rushed to hospitals for treatment. The authorities ensured that all necessary precautions were taken to manage the safety of the fans.
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