New Delhi, 22 February (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 131st episode of his weekly radio program Mann Ki Baat broadcast today at 11 AM IST, commended cricketers of Indian origin representing teams like the USA, Canada, and Oman at the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
PM Modi remarked that Indians, wherever they settle, remain deeply connected to their motherland while contributing wholeheartedly to their adopted countries' progress. He noted viewers' delight in spotting familiar names on foreign jerseys: The jersey may belong to another country, but on hearing their name, you realise that he is from our country, evoking quiet pride for these players honoring both heritages.
Canada's squad boasts the highest number of Indian-origin players, including Captain Dilpreet Bajwa (born in Punjab's Gurdaspur), Navneet Dhaliwal (from Chandigarh), Harsh Thaker, and Shreyas Movva, all elevating both nations' prestige.
The USA team features talents from India's domestic circuit: Captain Monank Patel (ex-Gujarat U-16/U-18), Saurabh (Mumbai), Harmeet Singh, and Milind Kumar (Delhi), forming the core of American cricket.
Oman's lineup includes Jatinder Singh, Vinayak Shukla, Karan Sonavale, Jay Odedra, and Ashish Odedara—former state-level players now bolstering Omani cricket.
Indian-origin athletes are also carving niches in New Zealand, UAE, and Italy squads, inspiring local youth and exemplifying Indianness: staying rooted while fostering growth in their karmabhoomi (workplace nation).
Though USA won two group matches, Canada and Oman lost all four, and UAE/Italy secured one win each, their efforts against top teams shone brightly.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
