WATCH: Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana and other Indian players meet PM Narendra Modi after Women’s World Cup 2025 triumph

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The Indian women’s cricket team met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence in New Delhi following their landmark World Cup 2025 victory. The meeting came just days after India defeated South Africa in a thrilling final, breaking the long wait for a senior ICC World Cup title in women’s cricket.

The interaction was warm, informal, and filled with personal memories from both sides. The Prime Minister congratulated the team for showing character after a difficult start to the tournament. The players had faced criticism and online trolling following three early losses, but the squad responded with a strong comeback. During the meet, PM Modi praised their mental strength and resilience, noting how they handled pressure on the global stage. The team also presented a special signed jersey with ‘Namo 1’ on the back – a gesture that highlighted their appreciation for the Prime Minister’s support. The interaction wasn’t only celebratory; discussions also involved how women’s cricket can inspire young girls across India.

Indian Team met the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modiji at his official residence 🙌#NarendraModi #CWC25 #TeamIndia

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) November 6, 2025

Harmanpreet Kaur shared that the moment held special meaning because the team had previously met PM Modi in 2017, but at that time they had no trophy in hand. She said the memory of that moment had stayed with them as a source of motivation. Harmanpreet said, “In 2017, we came here with hope. Today, we came with belief and the trophy.” PM Modi, also shared that he closely followed the team’s journey during the tournament, especially during the early criticism phase. He praised how the group stayed focused instead of getting drawn into the noise around them.

PM Modi mentioned memorable on-field moments, including Harleen Deol’s 2021 boundary catch and Amanjot Kaur’s final catch, saying “When the ball is in the air, you watch the ball. But after the catch, you must see the trophy.” Harmanpreet asked PM Modi how he manages to stay mentally steady during pressure situations. The Prime Minister told them that emotional balance comes from discipline and habit built over years. Harmanpreet said the answer struck her, adding she wants the team to now play with that same mindset consistently going forward.

Also READ: Pratika Rawal opens up on Shafali Verma replacing her as opener in Women’s World Cup 2025

Smriti Mandhana, who served as vice-captain in the campaign, said PM Modi has always encouraged women athletes and that his support gives players additional confidence. She said, “He motivates us without making it feel like pressure. He listens first, then speaks. That matters.” Deepti Sharma, Player of the Tournament, recalled PM Modi’s words from 2017 telling them to “keep working and the result will come.” She said she carried those words with her, and finally accomplishing the dream made the moment emotional.

PM Modi encouraged the players to promote the Fit India movement, especially among young girls. He noted that the team now represents more than cricket, they represent confidence, health, ambition, and representation for women across the country. The conversation also touched on family stories, sacrifices of parents, and how many players came from small towns with limited resources. PM Modi acknowledged that the journey of the women’s team reflects the broader story of Indian sports, rising from challenges to global recognition. Before the meeting concluded, PM Modi said, “This victory is not just yours. This belongs to every girl who dreams big.” The team said they hope to meet him again – “next time, with another trophy.”

Every Indian feels immense pride in Team India’s World Cup victory. It was a delight interacting with the women’s cricket team. Do watch! https://t.co/PkkfKFBNbb

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 6, 2025

Also READ: ICC announces Women’s World Cup 2025 Team of the Tournament, Laura Wolvaardt to lead

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.