PM Modi Celebrates Indian Fans' Passion for West Indies Cricket During Trinidad Visit
A Warm Welcome in Trinidad and Tobago
Port of Spain [Trinidad and Tobago], July 4: During his address to the joint assembly of Trinidad and Tobago's parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed the deep admiration Indian fans hold for the West Indies cricket team, except during matches against India.
"Indians are truly passionate supporters of the West Indies cricket team. We cheer for them wholeheartedly, except when they face India," PM Modi remarked.
Numerous iconic West Indies cricketers, such as Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and Kieron Pollard, have participated in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Gayle, Pollard, and Russell are particularly beloved among Indian cricket enthusiasts.
In the IPL 2025 season, elite Caribbean players like Nicholas Pooran, Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Sunil Narine, and Andre Russell showcased their talents.
During the visit, President Christine Kangaloo honored PM Modi with an award, marking him as the first foreign leader to receive this recognition. This accolade is the 25th international honor awarded to PM Modi by a foreign nation.
PM Modi commenced his official visit to Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday (local time), receiving a ceremonial Guard of Honour at Piarco International Airport, where he was welcomed by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, along with 38 ministers and four Members of Parliament from the Caribbean nation.
The citizens of Trinidad and Tobago greeted PM Modi with great enthusiasm, celebrating with traditional music and dance that highlighted a fusion of local and Indian cultures.
Additionally, PM Modi engaged with members of the Indian diaspora who gathered at the airport to extend their welcome.
Sharing a video on X, PM Modi stated, "May the friendship between India and Trinidad & Tobago flourish in the times to come! Highlights from a special welcome in Port of Spain."
This visit is part of a larger five-nation tour from July 2 to July 9, with Trinidad and Tobago being the second stop. The trip aims to enhance bilateral relations, focusing on sectors such as digital finance, renewable energy, health, and information technology.