IND vs AUS: The pre-match ceremony for the fourth test match which is held at Narendra Modi Stadium is a hot topic to discuss before we talk about cricket. India’s PM Narendra Modi along with his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese attended the ceremony called ’75 years of friendship through Cricket’.
Australian PM is currently on a diplomatic visit to the Indian sub-continent where he was invited by Narendra Modi to watch the final match between Australia and India in Ahmedabad.
Australia was the first touring team in independent India 75 years ago and that’s what made the occasion so special, something to is celebrated. Both of the PMs also inaugurated the Hall of Fame in the Narendra Modi Stadium which is dedicated to the friendship both nations share through cricket.
Ahead of the start, BCCI Secretary Jay Amit Shah felicitated Modi while BCCI President Binny felicitated Albanese. The two PMs also greeted fans across the stadium as they took a round of the stadium in a moving vehicle where they waved at the fans.
Festive affair at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium
After a cultural performance of song and dance, the prime ministers of both teams presented Test caps to their respective cricket captains, Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith. Upon reaching the stage, Rohit was greeted by PM Narendra Modi, who shook his hand and handed him his Test cap. PM Modi also greeted Steve Smith afterwards.
Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri was seen enlightening the two leaders about the significance of India-Australia Test matches.
After the ceremony, the captains met for the toss, with Smith deciding to bat first at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Australia retained their lineup from the previous game, while India brought in Mohammed Shami to replace Mohammed Siraj.
To qualify for the World Test Championship final, the Indian team led by Rohit Sharma needs to secure a victory. The final will be held at The Oval from June 7-11. Australia has already secured a spot in the final after winning the Indore Test last week.
Prior to the final Test of the series, there were various speculations and debates among fans and former cricketers about whether the Indian team would include an additional batsman in the playing XI. However, Rohit Sharma and the team management opted to trust the existing combination for the crucial final Test.
Here’s the video of PM Narendra Modi greeting both the captains and his counterparts:
