Women's World Cup-Winning Team India Gifts PM Narendra Modi Autographed 'NAMO' Jersey
In a proud and emotional moment for Indian cricket, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the victorious Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women’s cricket team at his residence on Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi, on Wednesday. The Indian team, which scripted history by winning the Women’s World Cup 2025, was warmly congratulated by the Prime Minister for their outstanding performance and their inspiring comeback after early setbacks in the tournament.
During the heartfelt interaction, PM Modi praised the team for their resilience, team spirit, and determination, especially after enduring a string of three losses and facing social media criticism. The players, in return, expressed their gratitude for his continuous encouragement and support.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur recalled her earlier meeting with the Prime Minister back in 2017, after India lost the World Cup final to England. This time, however, the meeting was one of celebration and triumph. She added that the team now hopes to meet the Prime Minister more often but always with trophies in hand. The team also presented a special autographed jersey bearing the name ‘NAMO’, symbolizing their respect and admiration for the country’s leader.
Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana shared how PM Modi’s motivation has always inspired the team, adding that his encouragement fuels their confidence. She emphasized how women across India are excelling in every field today, crediting the Prime Minister for initiatives that empower girls and women nationwide.
All-rounder Deepti Sharma, who was declared the ‘Player of the Tournament’, said she had been eagerly waiting to meet PM Modi again since their last meeting in 2017. She fondly remembered how he had inspired her back then to continue working hard. PM Modi also acknowledged Deepti’s spiritual side, mentioning her “Jai Shri Ram” Instagram post and her Lord Hanuman tattoo, which she said gives her inner strength.
During their candid discussion, Harmanpreet Kaur asked the Prime Minister how he always manages to stay calm and focused in the present moment. PM Modi replied that living in the present is a habit formed over time a lesson that resonated deeply with the team.
The Prime Minister also appreciated Amanjot Kaur’s game-changing catch that dismissed South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt, calling it a pivotal moment in the final. Another team member, Kranti Gaud, mentioned her brother’s admiration for PM Modi, prompting the Prime Minister to warmly invite them to meet him someday.
Towards the end of the meeting, PM Modi encouraged the champions to promote the ‘Fit India’ movement, especially among young girls. He highlighted the importance of fitness and urged them to visit schools to motivate children to lead active, healthy lives.
The meeting was filled with smiles, laughter, and heartfelt moments a true reflection of India’s pride in its World Cup-winning women’s cricket team. The symbolic ‘NAMO’ jersey now stands as a reminder of the bond between the nation’s leadership and its sporting heroes both working tirelessly to make India proud on the global stage.
