PM Narendra Modi heaps huge praise on USA cricket team after brilliant T20 World Cup 2024

Honourable Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi praised the United States of America (USA) men's cricket team for their impressive performance in the recent ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Speaking at the Indian diaspora event at Nassau Coliseum in New York, Modi spoke about the growing popularity of cricket in America and the significant contribution of Indian-Americans to the sport's development in the country.

PM Modi arrived to the United States for his three-day official visit, which included bilateral talks with US President Joe Biden and participation in the strategic Quad summit. The visit also will witness him attending the 'Summit of the Future' at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

The T20 World Cup 2024, co-hosted by the United States and West Indies from June 1 to June 29 this year, was a significant milestone for cricket in America. The US hosted 16 matches across venues in New York, Texas, and Florida, including the high-profile clash between India and Pakistan.

"Some days back here, the T20 World Cup took place. The USA team played so well in that competition. That team had so many Indian people who are living here and their contributions were witnessed by the whole world," the Indian Prime Minister said. 

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USA qualified for the Super Eight stage in T20 World Cup 2024

The USA team finished second in their group stage, securing two wins, including a brilliant Super Over victory against Pakistan. Although they lost all their matches in the Super Eights, they did put up a strong fight against the eventual runners-up South Africa, losing by just 18 runs while chasing 195.

Several players with Indian roots shined for the US team. Saurabh Netravalkar, who had represented India at the U19 level, claimed six wickets, including those of Indian stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Harmeet Singh, another former Indian U19 player, contributed with both bat and ball. USA captain Monank Patel's crucial half-century against Pakistan was another highlight of their campaign.