Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup champion teams include Sanath Jayasuriya, Chaminda Vaas, Aravinda de Silva, Marvan Atapattu, Ravindra Pushpakumara, Upul Chandana, Kumar Dharmasena and Romesh Kaluwitharana.
“Prime Minister Modi acknowledged that Sri Lankan cricket’s aggressive and innovative style at the 1996 World Cup, somehow gave birth to T20 cricket,” an official said.
During his stay in the island country, Modi recalled India’s visit to Sri Lanka in 1996, despite the bomb explosion, calling it a strong symbol of sportsmanship and lasting friendship.
He said he visited Lanka immediately after the 2019 terrorist attacks. He added that the spirit of India remained the same.
“Sri Lankan players asked Prime Minister Modi to support the establishment of a high-quality cricket stadium in northern Sri Lanka, especially in northern Jaffna.” The cricketers also thanked Modi for his generous assistance to India during the economic crisis in Sri Lanka.
Modi also reiterated India’s commitment to the “neighborhood first” policy, citing India’s support for Myanmar in the recent earthquake.
