In the aftermath of India’s defeat to Australia in the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023 final, Prime Minister Narendra Modi exhibited a lapse in hosting etiquette during the trophy presentation in Ahmedabad.
Following the final, Modi approached to present the trophy to the victorious Australian captain, Pat Cummins.
However, the gesture was marked by apparent reluctance as Modi handed over the trophy without a handshake and departed without speaking a word.
Pat Cummins, visibly surprised, held the trophy as Modi walked away, leaving it unaccompanied. The incident, captured in a viral video on social media, depicted Modi’s seemingly sarcastic behavior toward the Australian captain, gaining attention and sparking controversy.
The video has led to widespread discussions online, with many interpreting Modi’s actions as a source of embarrassment for India on the global stage.
Social media users expressed their expectations of such conduct from Modi, pointing to his associations with Hindu extremists and membership in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
The incident has raised questions about the diplomatic implications of such behavior for a world leader, particularly in the context of a globally watched sporting event.
As the video circulates widely, it adds a new dimension to the aftermath of India’s World Cup final defeat, drawing attention not only to the cricketing outcome but also to the actions of its political leaders on the international stage.