'Results Speak Volumes': PM Modi Discusses India-Pak Cricket Rivalry

Synopsis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed India's cricket rivalry with Pakistan, emphasizing the Men in Blue's superior record. He highlighted sports as a unifying force and acknowledged the importance of results in determining the best teams. Modi also touched upon India's aspirations for sports and praised football legends Maradona and Messi.

Key Takeaways

PM Modi highlights India's dominance in cricket against Pakistan.
Virat Kohli's century led India to victory in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Modi emphasizes the unifying power of sports.
He acknowledges the historical football culture in India.
He names Maradona and Messi as the greatest footballers.

New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shared his perspective on the intense cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan, highlighting the Men in Blue's dominance over their neighboring rivals as evidence.

Virat Kohli's outstanding century propelled India to a six-wicket victory against Pakistan during the group stage of the 2025 Champions Trophy, where India ultimately emerged as the tournament champions. Historically, the arch-rivals have only achieved two victories over India in ICC tournaments: in the 2017 Champions Trophy finals and the group stage of the 2021 T20 World Cup, underscoring their fierce competition.

"I believe that sports possess the ability to unite the world. The essence of sports connects people across nations. Therefore, I would never wish for sports to be undermined. I genuinely think sports play a crucial role in human development. They transcend mere games; they forge deep connections among individuals.

"Regarding the question of superiority, I am not a technical expert in the game. Only specialists can accurately judge which team or players excel. However, sometimes, results are telling. Just a few days ago, India and Pakistan faced off, and the outcome clearly indicated who the superior team was. That’s what matters," Modi remarked during his appearance on the Lex Fridman podcast.

During PM Modi's administration, there has been a significant promotion of sports in the country, with aspirations to transform India into a sporting nation, including the possibility of hosting the 2036 Olympics. When asked about the greatest football player of all time, PM Modi named two Argentinian legends - Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi - widely regarded as the finest in football history.

“Indeed, several regions in India boast a rich football culture. Our women’s football team is excelling, and our men’s team is also making considerable progress. Reflecting on the past, during the 1980s, one name that resonated was Diego Maradona. For that era, he was a true icon, and if you inquire with today’s youth, they will promptly mention Lionel Messi,” he concluded.