This Article is From Nov 18, 2014

PMs Narendra Modi and Tony Abbott Connect Over Cricket

PMs Narendra Modi and Tony Abbott Connect Over Cricket
Canberra: When the top political leaders of India and Australia meet can cricket be far behind?

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi by his side, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott set the ball rolling at a joint press conference in Canberra, saying people in his country have come to associate India with cricket.

Mr Abbott also said Mr Modi has "runs on the board" to meet the aspirations of the people.

Mr Modi made his cricket references in the Australian parliament when he said, "We celebrate the legend of (Don) Bradman and the class of (Sachin) Tendulkar together."

"We are impressed by Australian speed as you are charmed by the Indian spin until of course Shane Warne came along!," the Prime Minister said in his 25-minute speech.

Mr Modi also wished success to Australia in hosting the World Cup cricket next year.

In Melbourne, Mr Modi's next stop in Australia, the two leaders more than just talked cricket. Mr Abbott hosted a farewell dinner for Mr Modi at the famous 161-year-old Melbourne Cricket Ground, where they posed with the 2015 cricket World Cup trophy.

Over 700 guests attended the reception, and more than 500 people dined with the leaders at the famous stadium. Many legendary cricketers, including Indian greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev and Australian Stuart Clarke are present.

On his tour of Australia, Mr Modi has visited Brisbane, Sydney and Canberra. Melbourne is his final stop in the country. He leaves tonight for Fiji and will then return home.
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