'The firmness and frankness with which you have spoken about issues, especially relating to India's unity and integrity have endeared you to people across the spectrum.'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded recently-retired cricketer Gautam Gambhir for his contribution to the sport as well for his efforts to bring 'positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged'.
PM Modi made a special mention of the contribution made by Gambhir during India's triumphant campaign at the ICC World Twenty20 2007 and the 50-overs World Cup in 2011.
"Let me begin by congratulating you for your stupendous contribution to Indian sports! India will always be grateful to you for you memorable performances, many of which resulted in historic victories for our nation," Modi wrote in the letter which was posted by Gambhir on his Twitter handle.
Gambhir thanked the PM for his kind words.
"Thanks @narendramodi @PMOIndia for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country," he said in the same tweet posted along with the letter.
Modi praised Gambhir's passion for the game.
"I am sure the journey was filled with both ups and downs but your dedication and persistence ensured that you began to play for the nation. Within a short span, you emerged as a dependable opener, who often took the team to flying starts," the Prime Minister said.
The 37-year-old Gambhir was one of the most outspoken sportsmen in India who did not shy away from voicing his opinions on several issues facing the nation.
"The firmness and frankness with which you have spoken about issues, especially relating to India's unity and integrity have endeared you to people across the spectrum," PM Modi said.
"Alongside your game, you have been at the forefront of several community service initiatives and this is extremely heartening to see. It is great when public figures show the way and devote time as well as resources towards bringing a positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged," he added.
Gambhir made 58 Test appearances for India, scoring 4154 runs at an average of 41.95. His 147 ODI games fetched 5238 runs, while in 37 T20 Internationals, he scored 932 runs.
"When you announced retirement from all forms of cricket, you left several well wishers of yours disappointed. However, this decision marks the start of not one but several other innings of your life. You will have the time and opportunity to pursue other aspects which you would have wanted to pursue a lot earlier but didn't not have the time for," Modi said.
After his retirement, there was speculation that Gambhir may join politics but he categorically rejected it.
