The Indian cricket team, currently touring Australia for a five-match series, received a warm reception from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday.
The reception, held in Canberra, came just days after India’s emphatic 295-run victory in the Perth Test—India’s largest margin of victory on Australian soil. With this win, the visitors lead the five-match series 1-0 and are now gearing up for a two-day pink-ball practice match against the Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval, starting Saturday.
Big challenge ahead for the PM’s XI at Manuka Oval this week against an amazing Indian side. ⁰⁰
But as I said to PM @narendramodi, I’m backing the Aussies to get the job done. pic.twitter.com/zEHdnjQDLS
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) November 28, 2024
The Prime Minister also praised Virat Kohli for his outstanding century in the Perth Test. “Good ton in Perth. As if we weren’t suffering enough at that point,” Albanese remarked, referencing Kohli’s masterful innings that demoralized the Australian side.
The former Indian captain’s quick-witted reply, “Always gotta add some spice to it,” earned laughter from the room, highlighting the spirit of friendly competition between the two sides.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese meets the Indian Cricket Team at Parliament House, chatting with Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli. #ausvind #BGT2024@SBSNews pic.twitter.com/iyPJINCR7R
— Naveen Razik (@naveenjrazik) November 28, 2024
The Australian leader also lauded Jasprit Bumrah, who spearheaded India’s remarkable win in Perth. “Your style is very different from anyone. Great effort,” he told the pacer, acknowledging his unorthodox bowling that dismantled the Australian batting lineup.
The upcoming pink-ball practice match serves as a crucial opportunity for Team India to fine-tune their game ahead of the much-anticipated day-night Test in Adelaide, scheduled to begin on December 6. The conditions at Manuka Oval will allow players to adapt to the challenges of playing under lights, particularly with the swinging pink ball.
