Modi Encourages Indian Cricket Team Despite World Cup Loss

In a surprising turn of events, the much-anticipated victory celebration turned into a moment of despair for the Indian cricket team as they faced defeat in the World Cup final against Australia. The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, took it upon himself to console the disheartened team, visiting the dressing room after the match.

SBS Desk

November 21, 2023

1 minute

235

CRICKET

Modi Encourages Indian Cricket Team Despite World Cup Loss

Australia, with their fifth title, managed to halt India's winning streak, securing their sixth title after an eight-year gap. This defeat extended India's wait for their third title by another four years. The disappointment was palpable as star players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Mohammed Siraj were seen shedding tears on the field, creating a somber atmosphere in the dressing room.

The day, initially poised for celebration, witnessed an unexpected turn of events in Ahmedabad. India's team, led by Rohit Sharma, had reached the final with an impressive record of ten consecutive victories, raising the hopes of the entire nation. The anticipation was so high that many had assumed the World Cup would be theirs, with Prime Minister Modi personally handing over the trophy at the stadium named after him.

However, the script did not unfold as expected. Modi, dressed in a hand-cut jacket matching the blue color of the Indian team's jersey, found himself handing the trophy to the captain of the yellow jerseys in an almost empty Narendra Modi Stadium. Despite the disappointment, Modi displayed resilience and composure as he went to the dressing room to console the shattered team.

The video of Modi consoling players such as Kohli and Rohit has gone viral on social media, with the Prime Minister sharing it on his YouTube channel. In the video, Modi can be seen holding the hands of Rohit and Kohli, urging them to smile and reminding them that the entire country was watching. He acknowledged their impressive record of ten consecutive wins and emphasized the need to stay united and inspire each other.

Modi's interactions extended to the coaching staff, including Rahul Dravid, and players like Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammad Shami, whom he praised for being the tournament's highest wicket-taker. Despite the heartbreak, Modi encouraged the team to stay together and announced an invitation to meet them in Delhi after their return.

In the face of defeat, Modi's unwavering support and encouragement provided a glimmer of hope and solidarity for the Indian cricket team as they navigate the emotional aftermath of the World Cup final.