Another day to remember. An august gathering hosted by the High Commissioner of India for the visiting Indian cricket team in New Zealand. A pleasant dusk evening enhanced the outdoor setting.
The Indian cricket team has been visiting New Zealand again after a gap of over 5 years, and the changes have been significant. Led by a dynamic new captain, the team has found its confidence and has been performing phenomenally. In 2003-04 a tired Indian cricket team had been more or less steam-rolled in New Zealand. Not this time. It is the 'Black Caps' who are struggling to form a response.
The New Zealand media has been labelling this tour as a visit from 'Rockstars of Cricket', acknowledging the enormous following and gravitational pull of the Indian cricket scene.
Having met the Indian team in 2003-04 and now, the change in demeanour and body language is clear. The players seemed happier, more willing to mingle with others, less tired and clearly confident. Its always amazing how young some of these guys are. TV certainly makes them look 10 years older.
Here are some photos from the gathering.
With
Yuvraj Singh, one of the best international all-rounders and 20-20 star.
Indian High Commissioner Mr. K.P. Ernest meeting some of the team members