"Dedication, humility and passion": PT Usha praises Indian cricket team
IOA President PT Usha meets the Indian men's cricket team in Japan, praising their passion ahead of the crucial Asian Games 2026 quarter-final.
In a moment of profound inspiration, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President and legendary Olympian PT Usha met with the Indian men's cricket team in Japan. Ahead of their high-stakes campaign at the Asian Games 2026, Usha expressed her immense pride in the squad, noting the remarkable character displayed by the athletes.
The interaction took place in Aichi-Nagoya, where the team is currently stationed for the multi-sport event. Sharing her experience on social media, Usha described the meeting as "Very Very Special," highlighting how the players' spirit serves as a reminder of the true essence of sports.
A Heartfelt Interaction
Usha, who has long been a pillar of Indian athletics, was deeply moved by the firsthand observation of the cricketers' mindset. She noted that witnessing their drive up close reinforced why sports occupy such a sacred position in the hearts of the nation.
"Seeing their dedication, humility and passion firsthand, reminds me why sports hold such a sacred place in our hearts," Usha shared via X.
The IOA President extended her blessings to the entire squad, wishing them the very best as they prepare to represent India on the continental stage. Her words come at a critical juncture as the team prepares for their knockout phase.
The Road to Gold: India vs Afghanistan
The Indian men's cricket team enters the tournament with a singular mission: to defend the gold medal they secured during the 2023 Hangzhou Games. The team's journey in the 2026 edition reaches a fever pitch this Monday, September 28, as they face Afghanistan in a crucial quarter-final match scheduled for 10:30 am IST.
Under the guidance of stand-in head coach and former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman, the squad is packed with international talent. The team is led by captain Iyer, who looks to add an Asian Games title to his impressive leadership credentials.
The Indian Men's Squad
The roster features a blend of explosive hitters and world-class bowlers, including:
- Captain: Iyer
- Vice-Captain: Tilak Varma
- Wicket-keepers: Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan
- Key All-rounders & Bowlers: Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Yash Thakur
- Batting Talents: Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Chasing Success Following the Women's Triumph
The men's team is riding a wave of momentum generated by the Indian women's cricket team. In a stellar performance earlier in the Games, the women's side, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, successfully defended their title by defeating Sri Lanka by 147 runs to secure India's first gold medal of the 2026 Games.
As the men's team prepares to take the field against Afghanistan, the eyes of the nation—and the blessings of icons like PT Usha—are firmly upon them to replicate that golden success.