'Swing and miss at times, but we play with straight bat': Modi on India-UK ties after FTA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday drew a cricket analogy to describe the deepening relationship between India and the UK, following the signing of a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.

In a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Modi said, “For both India and the UK, cricket is not just a game but a passion—and also a great metaphor for our partnership.”

“There may be a swing and a miss at times, but we always play with a straight bat! We are committed to building a high-scoring, solid partnership,” he added, shortly after the FTA was officially signed.

The agreement, described as historic by both sides, aims to provide greater access to goods and services across the two economies. The deal was signed in the presence of both Prime Ministers.

PM Modi’s remarks come as the Indian men’s cricket team is currently playing in the UK. They are engaged in the fourth Test of a five-match series against England at Old Trafford, Manchester. The match is currently in its second day.

Beyond trade, PM Modi also addressed other significant issues, including the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, which left 26 people dead. He thanked the UK government for standing in solidarity with India over the incident.

He also expressed condolences for the British nationals who died in a tragic air crash in Gujarat. “Among the people who died in the accident in Ahmedabad last month, there were many UK nationals as well. We express our condolences to their families,” Modi said.

Highlighting the strength of people-to-people ties, PM Modi praised the Indian diaspora in the UK.

“People of Indian origin who live in the UK act as a living bridge in our relations. They didn’t just bring curry from India but also creativity, commitment, and character. Their contribution is not restricted to the UK economy; it is also seen in the country's culture, sports, and public service,” he noted.