Follow UsFresh off their historic Women's World Cup triumph, where they defeated South Africa by 52 runs in the final on November 2nd, the Indian women's cricket team was hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The Prime Minister spent time with all 16 champions and their support staff on Wednesday, November 5th, to celebrate the side's remarkable campaign.
Having secured the nation’s first World Cup trophy in women’s cricket under the captaincy of Harmanpreet Kaur, the Prime Minister shared a heartfelt message with the 16 players, asking them to take on their new role as icons for the next generation.
“Go to your schools one day. Meet the kids. Talk to them. They will ask you a lot of questions. And you please answer them. I am very sure this will become a core memory for them. They will remember you for life,” Modi told the players.
“I am not saying you have to go to every school. Visit the schools where you studied. Select three schools, and whenever you have time this year, go to one school per day. Not only will this motivate them, but you will also be motivated by their energy and enthusiasm.”
The Indian Prime Minister also didn't miss the opportunity to ask the women's team to be part of India’s Fit India initiative, as the nation is suffering through problems of obesity, and the team, with success backing them, can be great role models for youngsters overall, not just girls.
“Obesity is becoming a big problem in India. Reduce the consumption of oil by 10 per cent. If people hear these messages from you, they will believe them, especially the daughters of the country. Your contribution will make a real difference,” Modi said.
Team’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana responded positively to these points by the PM and assured him that the team will try its best to perform these roles requested of them.
“Going into the final, we had all been discussing how winning the World Cup would mark a new chapter for sports in India, not just women's cricket. The impact it will bring on sports will start a revolution in India. So going forward, we want to keep doing the same thing, to bring a revolution to women's cricket. That is the aim,” Mandhana added.
On a lighter note, one of the team’s bubbly characters, Harleen Deol, didn't miss an opportunity to ask PM Modi about his skin care routine, which really amused him.
“Sir, your skin is always glowing. Can you please tell me what is your skincare routine?” Harleen asked with a big smile.
Modi just laughed slightly and said that he does not think about all that, while adding that it's the blessing of Indians that's reflected on his visage.
Responding to this conversation, coach Amol Muzumdar joked about his hair growing white because of dealing with quirky characters like Harleen in the team.
“As you can see sir, these are the personalities I have to deal with. Which has now made my hair go white,” Muzumdar added to everyone's smiles.
Pic credit: PMO India