5 Indian cricketers played in both the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup finals. They made crucial contributions in both tournaments, showcasing remarkable performances. Their efforts in key moments helped secure India’s victories in two of cricket’s most prestigious tournaments.
5. S. Sreesanth
Sreesanth was a pivotal figure in India’s 2007 T20 World Cup final, taking a crucial catch to dismiss Misbah-ul-Haq and securing India’s five-run victory. However, his 2011 ODI World Cup experience was less successful. Despite playing in the final due to Ashish Nehra’s injury, he bowled 8 overs for 0/52 against Sri Lanka. This disappointing performance marked the end of his ODI career, as he never played another match in the format after the final.
4. Harbhajan Singh
Harbhajan Singh, India’s premier off-spinner, struggled in the 2007 T20 World Cup final, conceding 0/36 in 3 overs against Pakistan. His performance led to Dhoni opting for Joginder Sharma in the final over. However, in the 2011 ODI World Cup final, Harbhajan made a significant impact, taking 1/50 in 10 overs, including the crucial wicket of Sri Lanka’s opener Dilshan, who was threatening to dominate. His performance helped India secure the title, showcasing his resilience and skill.
3. Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir played crucial roles in both the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup finals. In 2007, he scored 75 off 54 balls against Pakistan, contributing significantly to India’s total. In 2011, Gambhir anchored the chase with a steady 97 off 122 balls, guiding India to victory. Though he didn’t win Player of the Match in either final, Gambhir always expressed gratitude for his contributions to the team’s success, which were vital in both World Cup victories.
2. Yuvraj Singh
Yuvraj Singh was instrumental in India’s successes in both the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup. Although his contributions in the finals were modest (14 runs vs Pakistan, 21 runs and 2/49 vs Sri Lanka), his performances throughout both tournaments were exceptional. In 2007, he scored 148 runs with a strike rate of 194, including a memorable six-hitting spree against Stuart Broad. In 2011, he amassed 362 runs and took 15 wickets, earning the Player of the Tournament award.
1. MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni played pivotal roles in both the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup finals. As captain, he led a young, inexperienced Indian team to victory in the inaugural T20 World Cup. In the 2011 final, under immense pressure, Dhoni delivered with a match-winning 91 runs off 79 balls, finishing in style with a memorable six. His leadership and composure in both finals solidified his status as one of the greatest captains in cricket history.
