Joginder Sharma, often remembered as the unsung hero of India’s 2007 T20 World Cup triumph, recently reunited with legendary former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, sharing a nostalgic moment that rekindled memories of one of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket history.
Joginder posted a heartfelt photo with Dhoni on his Instagram handle, accompanied by the background Bollywood music of “aye yaar sun yaari teri mujhe zindagi se bhi pyari hai.” The picture evoked a sense of deep camaraderie and respect between the two cricketers, reminding fans of their unforgettable finish in the 2007 T20 World Cup final against Pakistan.
“It was nice to meet @mahi7781 after a very long time. The fun of meeting you after almost 12 years was different today,” Joginder wrote.
In that historic match, Dhoni handed Joginder the responsibility of bowling the final over against a well-set Misbah-ul-Haq. This decision came as a surprise to many, given the high stakes and immense pressure. Pakistan needed just 13 runs to win with one wicket in hand. The tension was palpable, and the match hung in the balance.
Joginder, often considered an underdog, rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion. The over began with a wide, intensifying the already electric atmosphere. However, Joginder quickly regained his composure with a dot ball but was hit for a six by Misbah on the second delivery of the match, narrowing the equation to six runs needed off four balls.
The next delivery saw Misbah attempting a scoop shot over fine leg, but the ball landed safely in the hands of Sreesanth. This dismissal triggered euphoric celebrations as India clinched the inaugural T20 World Cup by five runs. Joginder’s calm demeanor and precise execution under pressure turned him into an unsung hero overnight.
“I thought I should throw the ball to someone who really wants to do well in international cricket. Jogi did a really good job,” Dhoni had said after the match. “It’s one of the things I will treasure for the rest of my life. I’d like to congratulate the boys and thank them for the response they have given me. No one expected us to win and the way we played we deserve a big celebration,” the former India skipper had said.
Dhoni went on to guide India to two more ICC titles — the ODI World Cup in 2011 and the Champions Trophy in 2013, besides winning the Test mace. The reunion of Joginder and Dhoni has reignited the spirit of that historic victory, reminding fans of the brilliance and camaraderie that defined the Indian cricket team in 2007.
