- PM welcomes Australian and Pakistani players and families
- Families played backyard cricket in Kirribilli
- The third Test against Pakistan starts on Wednesday
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hosted players and families from the Australian and Pakistan Test teams – and there was time for the player’s children to play backyard cricket at his luxurious Sydney home.
Both sides and their families visited the Prime Minister’s Kirribilli residence, overlooking Sydney Harbour, on Monday evening ahead of the third Test at the SCG starting on Wednesday.
Skippers Pat Cummins and Shan Masood posed for photos and exchanged gifts with Mr Albanese, who said it was a great honor to host them and their teams.
“Our Australian men’s players have spoken of the warm reception they received on their most recent tour of Pakistan in 2022, so Jodie and I are pleased to play a part in reciprocating this hospitality,” Mr Albanese said.
“This year’s annual event is extra special as we also recognize the success of our men’s and women’s cricketers, who have both won World Cup titles and retained the Ashes over the past twelve months.”
Albanese hosted players from the Australian and Pakistan Test teams – and their families – for a star-studded game of backyard cricket on Monday
David Warner (second from left) watched with Shaheen Afridi (left) as his daughter Indi sent in a few deliveries
Some of the cricketers’ children played a very nice game of cricket in the backyard, while players like David Warner and Shaheen Afridi looked on.
Warner later posted a photo of his daughter Indi on social media with the caption: “Indi gets tips @ishaheenafridi10” (Shaheen Afridi).
With Australia leading the series 2-0, the hosts have already secured the Benaud-Qadir Trophy.
However, Wednesday’s Pink Test will be an opportunity for the teams to improve their position in the ICC World Test Championship.
Started by former Test bowler Glenn McGrath in 2009 in honor of his late wife Jane, the Pink Test series has raised more than $22 million to help fund breast cancer support services.
McGrath, who also attended the Prime Minister’s event, thanked the public for their support of the initiative.
“We look forward to another great Pink Test and thank both the Australian and Pakistani teams for uniting in pink as we work towards our target of reaching 250 McGrath Breast Care Nurses this year,” he said.
Mike Baird, chairman of Cricket Australia and former NSW premier, said the Pink Test in Sydney showcased the best of the Australian spirit.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, his partner Jodie Haydon (third from left) and Federal Sports Minister Anika Wells (second from left) posed for a photo with the Warner family
“Public support for the Pink Test continues to go from strength to strength and it is truly special that this iconic Test Match is making a real difference to the lives of breast cancer families across Australia,” he said.
