In a heartwarming gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Indian cricket team’s dressing room following their defeat against Australia in the ODI World Cup final. The match, played at the world’s largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, saw Australia emerge victorious, securing their sixth title.
Despite the disappointment, Prime Minister Modi conveyed a message of encouragement to the players, urging them to keep smiling and reminding them that the entire country looks up to them. In a video capturing the moment, PM Modi could be seen greeting and motivating players, including head coach Rahul Dravid, acknowledging the ups and downs that come with sports.
The defeat was particularly tough for the Indian team, evident in the emotional scenes in the dressing room. Captain Rohit Sharma, visibly upset, struggled to hold back tears as he walked back. Head coach Rahul Dravid, a former player who experienced the disappointment of a World Cup final loss in 2003, shared that the dressing room was filled with a mix of emotions. He emphasized the hard work, sacrifices, and effort the team had put in throughout the tournament.
PM Modi, understanding the emotional toll of the loss, took a moment to comfort the players individually. He hugged fast bowler Mohammed Shami, exchanged words in Gujarati with native players Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah, and put an arm around Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, attempting to lift their spirits.
The Prime Minister’s visit aimed to provide support and motivation to the team during a challenging time. His words, “It happens,” echoed the unpredictable nature of sports and the importance of resilience in the face of defeat. The message of being each other’s strength resonated as the players grappled with the disappointment of falling short in the final.
Despite the loss, Team India’s journey to the World Cup final was commendable. They won all nine league matches, securing their spot in the semi-finals as the top-placed team on the points table. Although they couldn’t clinch the title in the final showdown, the team’s performance throughout the tournament showcased their talent and dedication.