'I wish both the teams all the best for tonight's World Cup match' - PM Modi adds vigour to India, Bangladesh T20 World Cup clash

India are currently taking on Bangladesh in a Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on June 22. Just before the game, the Asian rivals have received some motivation from the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. India and Bangladesh share a great bond politically and economically. The ties were further strengthened when Bangladesh's Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina visited India on June 21. 

Talking about the cricketing relation, both countries have ardent fans who have made the rivalry intense due to off-field shenanigans. Bangladeshi fans had once displayed the picture where the then Indian captain, MS Dhoni’s head was severed. The infamous snake dance of Bangladesh players during the Asia Cup was also not received well by the Indian fans. In the lead-up to the upcoming game, the Indian Prime Minister’s message has hinted at friendly competition.

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"I wish both the teams all the best for tonight's World Cup match. Bangladesh is India's largest development partner and we give utmost priority to our relations with Bangladesh,” said PM Modi as quoted by India Today.

Bangladesh have failed to overtake India in T20Is

India have been dominant in their outing against Bangladesh in T20Is with 12 wins in 13 games. The infamous loss of India against Bangladesh in the group stages of World Cup 2007 was where the rivalry saw its origin. Bangladesh were close to outsmarting the Indian team during the Nidahas Trophy final in 2018, but Dinesh Karthik’s last-ball heroics stole the game for India.

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Coming to both teams standing in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, India won their first game of the Super 8 stage and Bangladesh succumbed to Australia. A loss against India will further dent the Tigers’ hopes of making it to the semi-finals, whereas, a win will almost confirm India’s spot in the semi-finals.