Being in Durban, if I don’t talk about cricket, it would be a no ball: Narendra Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a four-nation tour of Africa, spoke about cricket in front of the ecstatic supporters in Durban, South Africa. In his civic reception at the South African city, Modi spoke about how cricket improves relations between the two countries.

Speaking in front of the ecstatic supporters, Narendra Modi was quoted by The Times of India as saying, ”Being in South Africa, especially in Durban , if I don’t talk about cricket, it would be a no ball. Love for this game runs wide and deep in our societies and cricket is an important part of our relations.”

India and South Africa have always share a friendly relationship with each other. India were the first team to play South Africa in an One-Day International (ODI) after they were reinstated as a Test nation in 1991 post the apartheid ban put up ICC in 1970’s. The last time these two teams met was in 2015 when South Africa toured India.

The visitors had a wonderful time here won as they pocketed the T20I series 2-0 and ODI series 3-2, after been beaten by the hosts 3-0 in the Test series. Since its reinstatement in ICC, South Africa has played India in 76 ODIs and 29 Tests.

Also, read – It’s a very proud moment for me to represent Bangladesh in the CPL: Shakib Al Hasan

South African players have always had a warm reception in India. Fans have huge respect for them and the players also love the hospitality here. The Indian Premier League has further strengthened the bond between both the countries. The likes of AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock and Dale Steyn are among the most loved cricketers and have a huge fan following.