Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed pleasure at witnessing Canada compete in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 hosted in India.
He drew a spirited comparison between cricket and the evolving partnership between India and Canada during the India-Canada CEOs’ Forum attended by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
PM Modi addressed business leaders after holding bilateral discussions with PM Carney.
The talks aimed to recalibrate diplomatic ties that had come under strain following the 2023 row linked to Khalistani separatist activities.
Against this backdrop, the Prime Minister invoked cricket as a metaphor for collaboration.
He remarked that many in the audience would be following the tournament.
Prime Minister Modi said the sight of Canada playing in the T20 World Cup brought immense joy to Indian viewers.
Drawing on the format’s tempo, he observed that swift decisions, bold strokes and decisive partnerships define success in T20 cricket.
He asserted that India and Canada could adopt similar dynamism to shape a shared future. PM Modi invited stakeholders to participate actively in India’s growth trajectory.
Canada’s Challenging Campaign
Canada marked its second appearance at a T20 World Cup, having debuted in 2024 and finished fourth in the group stage.
In the 2026 edition, however, the side faced a formidable Group D lineup comprising South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates.
The campaign proved demanding. Canada opened with a 57-run defeat against South Africa.
They then suffered a narrow five-wicket loss to the United Arab Emirates in a contest decided in the final over.
New Zealand secured an eight-wicket victory in the subsequent match. Afghanistan concluded Canada’s campaign with an emphatic 82-run win.
Although the Canadian side displayed resilience in patches with the bat, inconsistency in both batting and bowling undermined momentum.
The team finished at the bottom of the group standings and failed to progress to the Super Eights.
Prime Minister Modi’s remarks underscored sport’s ability to build bridges even amid diplomatic recalibration.
By celebrating Canada’s participation, he highlighted shared enthusiasm and competitive spirit as foundations for renewed engagement.
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