Indian-origin players global ambassadors of Indianness at T20 World Cup: PM Modi

Many players of Indian origin are making their countries proud, reflecting the true spirit of being Indian, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday. He added that wherever Indians go, they remain connected to their roots while contributing to the growth and development of the country they live and work in.

Countless Indian-origin players are bringing pride to their respective countries and this is the hallmark of Indianness, as wherever they go, Indians remain connected to their roots and contribute to the development of the place they live and work in, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday.

In his monthly "Mann Ki Baat" radio address, Modi noted that numerous players of Indian origin are bringing pride to the countries they represent and this is clearly visible in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

"I often say, 'The one who plays, blooms'. Sports also unite us. These days, you must be watching the T20 World Cup matches. And I am very sure that while watching the matches, many times your eyes must have been fixed on a particular player.

"The jersey is that of some other country, but on hearing the name, you feel that this person is from our country. Then a slight joy arises in some corner of the heart," he said.

The prime minister pointed out that these Indian-origin players represent the countries where their families have settled.

They step onto the field wearing the jerseys of their respective countries and represent their teams wholeheartedly, he said.