Enthusiastic supporters defied torrential rain and tight security measures as Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a celebratory breakfast for India's triumphant T20 World Cup cricket team on Thursday. Fans, undeterred by the weather, gathered at the airport holding placards and national flags to welcome the champions, who clinched victory against South Africa in a thrilling final in Bridgetown just days earlier.
The scene outside the airport was a jubilant display of dancing, multiple cakes, and fervent admiration for their cricketing idols, highlighting the sport's unparalleled popularity in the country. The players, weary from their journey but buoyed by the festive atmosphere, joined in the celebrations upon their arrival at the hotel.
"I've been waiting since 4:30 am for this moment. The team's World Cup win has filled us with pride," exclaimed a fan, reflecting on India's first World Cup triumph since 2011.
Hurricane Beryl's aftermath in Barbados delayed the team's return, but arrangements made by BCCI secretary Jay Shah ensured a special charter flight, "AIC24WC," brought them back to Delhi early Thursday morning after a non-stop 16-hour flight. Heavy security measures were in place at the airport, yet fans cheered passionately for their favorite players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rahul Dravid.
At the ITC Maurya Sheraton, traditional Bhangra dancers and dhol drummers greeted the players as they arrived. The players, including Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rishabh Pant, joined in the dance, creating lasting memories with the locals.
Media frenzy surrounded their every move, from cutting a trophy-shaped cake to their visit to Prime Minister Modi's residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. The team, accompanied by BCCI officials, spent two hours with Modi, exchanging light-hearted moments and expressions of gratitude.
Later, Kohli shared a photo on Instagram, thanking Modi for the honor of the meeting. At the airport, despite fatigue, players like Suryakumar Yadav and Mohammed Siraj acknowledged fans with waves and gestures of appreciation.
Following their Delhi visit, the team heads to Mumbai for an open bus victory parade and a felicitation ceremony at Wankhede Stadium, promising yet another emotional moment for fans and players alike.
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