In a compassionate display of support, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Indian cricket team's dressing room at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. His visit was aimed at consoling the team after their disappointing defeat in the World Cup 2023 final against Australia. PM Modi's gesture came at a time when emotions were understandably high among the Indian players.
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Despite being favorites and entering the World Cup final with a formidable track record, Rohit Sharma's team fell short in the crucial match. They managed to score only 240 runs on a challenging pitch, which Australia chased down with a stellar bowling performance and a defining century from their batsmen.
The defeat was particularly disheartening as India played in front of nearly 100,000 fans, hoping to secure their third World Cup trophy. However, Australia's exceptional performance led them to victory, dashing India's dreams of clinching the title in an ICC event.
PM Modi, who was present at the post-match presentation ceremony, had the honor of handing the World Cup trophy to Australian captain Pat Cummins. Following the ceremony, PM Modi made his way to the Indian dressing room to interact with the players.
During his visit, the Prime Minister offered words of encouragement and uplifted the spirits of the players, who were visibly dejected after the loss. He was seen conversing with team captain Rohit Sharma and former captain Virat Kohli, urging them to stay positive despite the setback.
"It happens, you won 10 matches in the tournament. Chin up. All of you make sure that you lift the spirits of each other," PM Modi said in the Indian team dressing room.
PM Modi's presence brought a lighter mood to the dressing room, as he engaged in friendly banter with players like Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah. He also embraced Mohammed Shami, acknowledging his outstanding performance as the leading wicket-taker in the tournament.
Virat Kohli's exceptional performance in the World Cup was also a highlight, as he set new records by scoring 765 runs, the highest in a single edition of the World Cup, and achieving his 50th ODI hundred in the semi-final, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record.
Rohit Sharma led the team with determination, scoring 597 runs with an impressive strike rate. The Indian bowling unit, spearheaded by Mohammed Shami with 24 wickets in 7 matches, performed commendably throughout the tournament.
Despite their efforts, India could not overcome the Australian team's dominant display in the final, with Pat Cummins and Travis Head playing pivotal roles in securing the victory for Australia. The Australian team's triumph marked their record-extending sixth World Cup win.
In a show of appreciation for their efforts, PM Modi invited the Indian team to New Delhi, recognizing their hard-fought journey in the World Cup. This act reflected the Prime Minister's support and admiration for the team's dedication and skill, despite the final's outcome.
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