Team India T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer also extended his greetings, writing, “Happy Independence Day” on X. Former India women’s cricket team captain Mithali Raj also extended her greetings and wrote, “Wishing everyone a very Happy 80th Independence Day!” Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar shared a picture featuring the Indian national flag and wrote, “Happy Independence Day! Indian spin legend Anil Kumble wished the nation, saying, “Happy Independence Day! Jai Hind.
Indian cricketing legends and prominent players extended greetings to the nation on Saturday, with several taking to social media to mark the country’s 80th Independence Day.
Addressing the nation from the iconic Red Fort on Saturday, PM Modi said India’s performance in sports has been improving, and the country is moving forward as a strong contender to bid for the 2036 Olympics. Former India captain Rohit Sharma shared a picture of himself in Team India’s jersey and wrote while sharing an Instagram story, “Always proud to carry the Happy Independence Day!
Highlighting the scope of the Olympic Games, the Prime Minister said there are around 40 sports and nearly 325-350 events, but India does not participate or qualify in nearly two-thirds of them. PM Modi said India needs to identify and nurture young talent in preparation for the 2036 Olympics, particularly children who are currently five, 10 or 15 years old. Earlier reporting noted: India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026, with members of the country’s sporting fraternity taking to social media to extend their wishes and reflect on the values of freedom, unity, sacrifice and national pride. The year also marks 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, which played a significant role in India’s freedom movement and continues to hold a special place in the country’s national consciousness.
Therefore, a talent hunt campaign will be conducted in every village, every city and every school to identify sporting talent among children aged five to 15,” he said.
“In 2030, India is also going to host the Commonwealth Games,” PM Modi said. The Prime Minister said the identified talent would be provided specialised training to prepare them to represent the country at the highest level. “Happy Independence Day!,” wrote both former India legend Sachin Tendulkar and Indian T20I captain Shreyas Iyer.
“We have to pay attention to our sons and daughters. Leading the wishes were ICC Chairman Jay Shah and former India captain Virat Kohli, who shared messages highlighting the values that continue to unite the country. Celebrating the freedom that unites us, the diversity that defines us, and the dreams that drive us forward. May we continue building an India that inspires generations. Jai Hind.
Earlier reporting noted: Virat Kohli also shared a post on Instagram that read, “Happy Independence Day. Earlier reporting noted: India’s cricketing legends also joined the celebrations.
