PM Narendra Modi praised young athletes for their performances at the 2026 Asian Games.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi smiled as the Prime Minister spoke about teenagers making India proud on the international stage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated India’s Asian Games contingent in Delhi on Thursday, October 15, following the country’s campaign at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. During the ceremony, he praised the young athletes who had represented the country and highlighted their contribution to Indian sports.

Among those present was teenage cricket sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who was part of India’s men’s cricket team that won gold at the continental event. The 15-year-old was seen smiling as PM Modi spoke about the achievements of young athletes during his address.

PM Modi’s remark brings a smile to Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s face

Addressing the Indian contingent, PM Modi highlighted how several athletes aged between 15 and 17 had made India proud with their performances. He emphasised that age was not a barrier to success and that starting early in sports could give young athletes an advantage.

“This time in the Asian Games, there were many players on Team India whose age was only 15 to 17 years. At such a young age, these players have enhanced the pride of the country with their spectacular performances. They have won the hearts of the countrymen. This shows that for success, age is not a restriction. In sports, it is the start made at a young age that becomes an added advantage,” PM Modi said.

As the Prime Minister spoke about the achievements of teenage athletes, Suryavanshi broke into a smile. The young cricketer was part of the Indian men’s team that clinched the gold medal in cricket at the Asian Games in Japan.

Here’s the video:

🔴VAIBHAV SURYAVANSHI REACTION WHEN PM MODI PRAISED HIM 😅

– The entire Team India started teasing Vaibhav after PM Modi praised him. 😭 pic.twitter.com/qUj7jT8o5p

— Sam (@cricsam02) October 15, 2026

Suryavanshi set for India’s upcoming New Zealand tour

Suryavanshi’s rise has generated considerable excitement among Indian cricket fans, with many eager to see more of the 15-year-old in the national colours. He is also part of India’s squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, giving him another opportunity to be around the senior team.

Meanwhile, India are preparing for the fifth T20I against the West Indies on October 17 in Bengaluru, with the five-match series level at 2-2. West Indies captain Shai Hope has been a standout performer, scoring centuries in the second and fourth T20Is to help his side draw level.