A warm welcome
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted India’s Women’s World Cup champions at his residence in Delhi on Wednesday, congratulating the players for their victory, praising how they turned online criticism into motivation. (PTI photo)
A moment of pride
Dressed in elegant formal attire with their gold medals gleaming, the Women’s World Cup champions posed proudly with Prime Minister Modi and the trophy. (PTI photo)
Special gift for the PM
The team presented Prime Minister Modi with a special cricket jersey featuring “NaMo” printed on it. Smiling as he held it up, the PM thanked the players for the gesture. (PTI photo)
'Without the trophy then, with it now'
Speaking to the prime minister, captain Harmanpreet Kaur shared a heartfelt moment, recalling their meeting with PM Modi in 2017 after a near miss. She said now that they have met him with the trophy, and that they wish to meet him more often. (PTI photo)
Inspiration and faith
Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana said the team found constant inspiration in PM Modi’s words. All-rounder Deepti Sharma recalled his advice from 2017 — to stay focused and keep working hard until success followed. When PM Modi mentioned her “Jai Shri Ram” post and Hanuman tattoo, Deepti smiled and said both give her strength and peace on the field. (PTI photo)
PM reminisces
The Prime Minister fondly remembered iconic cricketing moments — Harleen Deol’s stunning catch against England in 2021, and Amanjot Kaur’s dramatic grab in the final. Harmanpreet also shared how she pocketed the match ball as a keepsake. (PTI photo)
Call to inspire
Before wrapping up, PM Modi urged the players to carry forward the message of Fit India, especially among schoolgirls. He spoke about the growing concern of obesity and said the team’s story could motivate the next generation to stay healthy and dream big. (PTI photo)