Sri Lanka's 1996 World Cup Champions Express Gratitude After Meeting PM Modi
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Synopsis
Sri Lanka's 1996 World Cup-winning cricket team members expressed their deep admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a meeting in Colombo. Chaminda Vaas and Sanath Jayasuriya highlighted the honor and valuable discussions they had with the Prime Minister about cricket and Sri Lanka's future.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi is regarded as a leading figure in South Asia.
- The 1996 World Cup team had a memorable meeting with him.
- They discussed cricket history and future prospects for Sri Lanka.
- India has been a crucial ally to Sri Lanka under PM Modi's leadership.
- Several players shared their admiration and insights from the meeting.
Colombo, April 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is recognized as the most influential leader in South Asia, remarked Chaminda Vaas, while Sanath Jayasuriya characterized their meeting as "a remarkable experience". The members of Sri Lanka's victorious 1996 World Cup cricket team expressed their admiration for PM Modi following their team meeting in Colombo on Saturday.
During his official visit to Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Modi took a moment from his packed itinerary to connect with the 1996 ODI World Cup-winning squad.
"Meeting him personally as part of the '96 team was a tremendous honor. We discussed sports from 1996, our World Cup victory, our triumph over India, and the future of Sri Lanka. It was a fruitful conversation.
"The Honourable Prime Minister appears to be a cricket enthusiast. His grasp of cricket history is impressive, and he engaged in discussions about the 1996 victory, Sanath Jayasuriya, and Aravinda de Silva, even inquiring how we managed to defeat India," said former left-arm pacer Chaminda Vaas.
Opener Sanath Jayasuriya expressed that meeting PM Modi was an invaluable experience.
"It was a significant occasion for our '96 cricket team to meet the esteemed Prime Minister. We shared our cricketing journey, both past and present, discussing our current endeavors.
"He elaborated on various topics, including his leadership journey and the progress he has made in developing the nation since 2014. This meeting was enlightening for us, revealing insights we had not previously encountered, as the Honourable Prime Minister detailed his contributions to India," said Jayasuriya.
Jayasuriya's opening partner Romesh Kaluwitharana noted that under PM Modi's leadership, India has significantly supported Sri Lanka.
"Since His Excellency ascended to power, he has initiated many positive changes. India has been a steadfast ally for Sri Lanka, particularly in times of crisis, and has always assisted us financially in cricket, helping us maintain our footing through tours," said Kaluwitharana.
Former spinner and international umpire Kumara Dharamasena expressed his excitement after meeting Prime Minister Modi, stating that it was the first time he had encountered such a leader. Roshan Mahanama described the meeting with PM Modi as a "dream fulfilled".
"Cricket connects! I was thrilled to engage with members of the 1996 Sri Lankan cricket team that captured the World Cup that year. This team inspired countless sports fans," shared PM Modi on X.
