Boundaries may have been hit, but bonds were strengthened as Gujarat and Australia came together for a unique friendly cricket match, highlighting the growing sporting collaboration between the two regions.
The T10 match took place on March 23 at Swaminarayan Gurukul Vidyapith in Ahmedabad, bringing together senior officials from both sides.
Phillip Green, High Commissioner of Australia to India, and Harsh Sanghavi, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Ports & Culture, Gujarat, captained the respective teams. The match marks the first occasion that senior leaders from the two countries have faced off on the cricket pitch.
Harsh Sanghavi shared highlights of the event on X, noting:
“Where boundaries were hit, but bonds were built stronger! Gujarat & Australia friendly match.”
He added: “An absolute delight to witness the Gujarat–Australia friendly cricket match today! Great to have H.E. Phillip Green OAM present, adding to the spirit of camaraderie.”
“Both teams showcased incredible courage, sportsmanship, and a true sense of togetherness, reminding us that cricket goes beyond boundaries.”
Phillip Green also commented: “Wrapped up a busy day of appointments in Ahmedabad with a 10/10 match, and a friendly hit with the Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat.”
“Cricket brings Australians and Indians together like nothing else.”
Officials said the initiative is part of a broader collaboration aimed at developing sporting infrastructure in Gujarat.
Australia, which has hosted five Commonwealth Games and whose Brisbane city will stage the 2032 Summer Olympics, is regarded as an expert in managing major sporting events.
Australian sports infrastructure and management companies, including Cox and Populous, have already been involved in developing sports facilities in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.
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