The Indian High Commission in London hosted a special ceremony on Sunday to honor the Indian women's cricket team, who are currently in England for a five-match T20I series. The event, a vibrant display of patriotism and community support, was held at Aldwych in Central London. It celebrated the athletes who are representing India on the international stage.
Led by Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, the entire Indian squad attended, receiving a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora and officials. Indian fans gathered in large numbers to show their support, waving tricolor flags and singing the national anthem, which added emotional resonance to the evening.
Vikram Doraiswami, the High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, addressed the gathering and praised the team’s recent performances and growing stature in world cricket. He said, "You are not just athletes; you are role models and ambassadors of a rising India," and wished the team success for the upcoming series. The ceremony also included brief interactions between the players and fans, with several young supporters expressing admiration for the team's achievements.
The High Commission’s gesture is seen as a morale booster for the players as they compete in a crucial series in England. The Indian team and the support staff, led by head coach Amol Muzumdar, gathered on the grounds of the High Commission of India on Saturday evening. Doraiswami welcomed the “genuine heroes” who inspire Indians around the world with their performance, passion, and commitment to cricket. He added, "What they have done is to revolutionize sport and to revolutionize the idea of participation in everything in India". He further stated that the team represents India at its best.
The Indian women's team has seen a significant rise in popularity in recent years, with several players becoming household names. Their current tour is being closely followed by fans both in India and abroad, and Sunday’s function reflected the growing enthusiasm for women’s cricket. India currently leads this five-match series 2-1, with the fourth game at Old Trafford on Wednesday and the last at Edgbaston on Sunday. On Saturday, England Women clinched a last-ball thriller to beat India Women by five runs in the third T20I match between the two sides at the Oval.
The High Commissioner highlighted how the team has become a symbol of rising India – fearless, focused, and full of potential. He praised the players for their performance on the field and for being role models for millions of young girls across the world. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Vice-Captain Smriti Mandhana, along with several key players, shared their journey, challenges, and the pride they feel representing India globally. Their message was one of unity, ambition, and the unstoppable rise of women in sport. The players were greeted with applause and cheers as the audience showed their support and admiration.
