The North News
New Delhi, November 6
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met India’s ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 champions at his official residence in New Delhi, congratulating the team for their “grit, unity and spirit” after their historic win over South Africa in the final on 2 November. During the interaction at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, Modi recalled a viral moment from the match, joking with all-rounder Amanjot Kaur that her stunning catch had become “famous across the country.” Amanjot laughed, saying that although she had taken many blinders before, “none had gained such fame – it felt good even after fumbling.” Modi replied that the moment was a turning point, adding, “After taking that catch, you must have started seeing the trophy.”
Amanjot agreed, saying she could see the trophy in that moment as her teammates jumped on her in celebration. The Prime Minister said that much like Suryakumar Yadav’s iconic catch, Amanjot’s effort captured the emotion of a billion fans.
Congratulating the players, Modi said, “You have achieved something great. Cricket is not just a sport in India – it is part of our lives. When cricket triumphs, the entire nation feels joy.” The Prime Minister praised the team’s resilience after their early losses in the tournament, noting how they faced trolling but turned it into motivation. “This victory belongs to the daughters of the nation,” he said, adding that their success would inspire millions of young girls.
Head coach Amol Mazumdar thanked the Prime Minister, describing the win as the result of two years of “unrelenting hard work.” He called it “a campaign led by India’s daughters.” Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, visibly moved, recalled meeting Modi in 2017 after losing the World Cup final. “That day we came without a trophy. Today, we are here with one. It’s a matter of immense pride,” she said.
Modi praised the team’s mental strength and unity, saying their journey had “taught the nation how to rise after a fall.”
Star batter Smriti Mandhana said she still remembered asking Modi in 2017 how to deal with expectations. “His answer stayed with me for years. That advice helped us stay calm through every heartbreak,” she said, calling the Prime Minister’s support “deeply motivational.”
Jemimah Rodrigues spoke about the team’s comeback after three losses, saying, “A champion team isn’t defined by victories but by how it rises after defeats.” Teammate Sneh Rana agreed, adding that “our strength was never leaving each other’s side.”
Harleen Kaur Deol said she made it her mission to keep the team smiling, while Jemimah revealed Harleen played a big role in “holding everyone together.” The Prime Minister laughed when Harleen asked him about his “glowing skin.” Modi smiled and said it was the “love of crores of Indians” that gave him strength. Deepti Sharma shared how Modi’s words from 2017—“A true player is one who rises from failure”—had guided her. She also spoke about her Hanuman Ji tattoo, saying it gave her strength in difficult times. Modi praised her faith, calling it “a source of inner power.”
Shafali Verma spoke about growing up in Rohtak, known for wrestlers, and how her father’s unrealised dream of becoming a cricketer inspired her journey. “He passed his passion to me,” she said.
Radha Yadav and Kranti Gaud shared emotional accounts of overcoming hardship. Radha recalled using her first prize money to help her father, while Kranti described playing her first match with long hair, scoring 25 runs and taking two wickets. Modi listened intently, calling their stories “truly inspirational.” Pratika Rawal, who missed the final due to injury, said the team dedicated the victory to her. Modi praised the gesture, saying it showed “true team spirit—on and off the field.”
Uma Chetry, the first woman from the North East to play for India, said debuting in a World Cup match was “a dream come true.” The Prime Minister said her story would inspire young athletes from every region. Renuka Singh Thakur shared her sketch of a peacock, prompting Modi to send personal greetings to her mother, who raised her as a single parent.
Reflecting on their win, Smriti Mandhana said the team hoped it would spark a revolution in women’s sports. Modi urged the players to visit their former schools to inspire students, suggesting each player adopt three schools to visit annually.
He also encouraged the team to champion the Fit India Movement, especially in promoting healthy lifestyles among young girls. “If you speak about it, millions will listen,” he said.
As the meeting ended, the Prime Minister told the champions, “Together, we must take India forward.” Smriti Mandhana promised they would continue spreading his message wherever they go.
The session ended with smiles, laughter, and applause—echoing the joy of a nation that celebrated its daughters’ triumph on the world stage.
