On the opening morning of the fourth Test match between Australia and India in Ahmedabad, the mood was different. They were nothing like what cricket players from opposing teams had encountered. Both Australia’s Anthony Albanese and India’s Narendra Modi were present to commemorate the connection between the two nations, which has been largely based on shared interests in cricket. That meant an unprecedented mashup of cricket, politics, diplomacy, and huge festivities. The Narendra Modi Stadium’s enormous stands were complemented by the enormous posters of Prime Minister Modi and his Australian counterpart.
The leaders did not let us down either. Prior to the toss, Australia’s acting captain Steve Smith received his cap from Anthony Albanese, while India’s Premier Narendra Modi presented Rohit Sharma with his. The Australian PM was congratulated by BCCI President Roger Binny, while PM Modi was congratulated by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah. A lap of honour was also completed by Modi and Albanese to commemorate the 75th anniversary of India and Australia’s friendship.