This is the speciality of Bhartiyata: PM applauds Indian-origin players in foreign teams during T20 WC

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised Indian-origin cricketers representing foreign countries, describing their journeys as a reflection of “Bhartiyata”, a bond with their motherland even as they contribute wholeheartedly to their adopted nations.

Emphasising the unifying power of sports, the Prime Minister during the 131st episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on February 22, said, “One who plays, blooms” and noted that sports “unite us.”

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Referring to the ongoing T20 World Cup, he observed how Indian fans often feel a special connection when they see players of Indian heritage representing other countries.

“Nowadays, you must be watching T20 World Cup matches. I am sure that while watching a match, you must be eyeing a particular player. The jersey may belong to another country, but hearing their name makes you realise they are from our country. The moment gives you a slight happiness because the player is of Indian origin and is playing for the country where his family settled,” Modi said.

“They step onto the field wearing the jersey of their country and wholeheartedly represent that nation,” he added.

Pointing to specific examples, Modi noted that the Canadian team has a significant number of Indian-origin players. He mentioned captain Dilpreet Bajwa, born in Punjab’s Gurdaspur, and Navneet Dhaliwal from Chandigarh. He also referred to Harsh Thaker and Shreyas Movva, stating that these cricketers are “making both Canada and India proud.”

Speaking about the United States of America (USA) side, he said, “America’s team has many players from India’s domestic cricket. The American team’s captain, Monank Patel, has played for Gujarat’s U-16 and U-18 teams. Mumbai’s Saurabh Netravalkar, Harmeet Singh, and Delhi’s Milind Kumar are all proud of the American team.”

The Prime Minister further highlighted the presence of Indian-origin players in Oman’s cricket team, mentioning Jatinder Singh, Vinayak Shukla, Karan, Jai, and Ashish, many of whom have previously played in different Indian states.

He also observed that players of Indian heritage are making their mark in teams from New Zealand, the UAE, and Italy.

“India-origin players are also creating a place for themselves in the teams of New Zealand, UAE, and Italy. Many such Indian-origin players are bringing pride to their countries and becoming an inspiration for the youth there,” he said.

“This is the speciality of Bhartiyata. Wherever they go, Indians remain connected to the roots of their motherland, and they also contribute to the development of their karmabhoomi,” the Prime Minister further said.