As the Indian cricket team lifted the T20 World Cup after an 11-year-long wait for an ICC title, celebrations galore and tributes and congratulatory messages poured in from across the world. Among those heaping praises on the team were politicians, too, cutting across party lines.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a video on X and said the cricketers have won the hearts of crores of India. Modi wrote, “CHAMPIONS! Our team brings the T20 World Cup home in STYLE! We are proud of the Indian Cricket Team.” Modi also remarked India’s performance at the dramatic finals as historic. Further he said that over 140 crore Indians are feeling proud of their performance and they won the cup both in the field and hearts of crores of Indians in villages and streets. Commenting on India securing victory in every match held during the World Cup, Modi said it is not a small feat in a tournament where so many countries took part.

President Droupadi Murmu appreciated team India for emerging victorious after overcoming difficult situations and hailed their “never-say-die spirit”. Murmu wrote on X, “My heartiest congratulations to Team India for winning the T20 World Cup. With the never-say-die spirit, the team sailed through difficult situations and demonstrated outstanding skills throughout the tournament. It was an extraordinary victory in the final match. Well done, Team India! We are proud of you!”

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also appreciated “Men in Blue” for their “spectacular” and “phenomenal” performance. Gandhi also praised coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and cricketer Surya Kumar Yadav in his post. “Congratulations to Team India on a spectacular World Cup Victory and a phenomenal performance throughout the tournament! Surya, what a brilliant catch! Rohit, this win is a testament to your leadership. Rahul, I know team India will miss your guidance. The spectacular Men in Blue have made our country proud,” Gandhi wrote.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah wrote on X, “Congratulations to world champion Team India. A glorious moment for our nation. Our players put up a stellar performance throughout the #T20WorldCup with unmatched team spirit and sportsmanship. The nation swells with pride at their historic achievement. Well done.”

Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his pride in team India saying, “What an incredible victory and achievement by Indian cricket team! The Indian team has scripted history by defeating South Africa at #T20WolrdCupFinal! The entire nation is elated by India winning the T20 Cricket World Cup! Congratulations to the Indian cricket team for spectacular display of cricketing skills, grit and perseverance. This victory today will motivate so many upcoming cricketers and sportspersons. We are proud of the Indian team.”

Veteran Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge specially mentioned about Virat Kohli, Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh’s performances and wrote, “In a nail-biting final, Team India won the #T20WorldCup after 17 years! Many congratulations to the Men in Blue for their impressive display of talent and dedication. Virat Kohli, Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh shone through the match. Every Indian is proud of this incredible victory. Your achievements will always be celebrated and cherished. We look forward to continuing to support and cheer for you in future matches!”

Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju wrote in a post on X, “What a splendid win! A proud and historic moment for our nation as #TeamIndia clinches the T20 World Cup 2024 title! Congratulations on your exceptional performance against South Africa. Your relentless spirit & remarkable skill have brought immense pride to every Indian. Thank you for inspiring millions & showcasing the true spirit of sportsmanship!”