In a stunning turn of events at the Cricket World Cup 2023, the Indian cricket team, on the cusp of ODI glory after winning 10 consecutive matches, faced a crushing defeat in the final against Australia. The Narendra Modi Stadium, filled with anticipation and a sea of disappointed fans, witnessed a six-wicket victory for Australia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in Team India colours in the stands, with Home Minister Amit Shah found themselves consoling a dejected Indian squad in the dressing room.
In a video captured by PIB, Prime Minister Modi addressed the team individually, acknowledging their remarkable journey in the tournament. "You have won 10 consecutive games. This one loss is normal, it keeps on happening. Please smile; the entire country is watching you. I just thought that I should go and meet you people," expressed the Prime Minister, attempting to uplift the spirits of the players.
With a handshake for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, he empathetically stated, "Hota hai (it happens)," recognizing the emotional toll of the defeat. The camaraderie extended to fellow Gujarati player Ravindra Jadeja, where PM Modi shared a light moment, uttering, "Kya babu," in Gujarati, eliciting laughter from both.
Approaching Mohammed Shami, the tournament's top wicket-taker, the Prime Minister embraced him warmly. "Arrey Shami, bahut accha kiya iss baar. (Well done, Shami. You played really well this time)," he commended, patting his back. He also had an exchange with Jasprit Bumrah, asking if he spoke Gujarati. “A little bit,” came the bowler’s response in Gujarati.
#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Team India in their dressing room after the ICC World Cup Finals at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on 19th November.The PM spoke to the players and encouraged them for their performance throughout the tournament.
(Video:… pic.twitter.com/ZqYIakoIIj
— ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2023
India's sensational, undefeated run at the tournament ended in crushing fashion after the Men in Blue lost by six wickets to now six-time champions Australia.
Players, including captain Rohit Sharma and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, were seen in tears after the loss.
The cricketing saga took an intense turn with India managing to post only 240 runs in the first innings. KL Rahul top-scored with 66 from 107 balls. Virat Kohli made 54 after Rohit Sharma struck 47 off just 31 balls opening the innings.
The team staged a strong comeback with the ball, putting Australia under pressure early on but fell short. The turning point came with the 137-run inning of Travis Head and his partnership with Marnus Labuschagne, who contributed 57 runs off 109 balls.
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