The Great Hall at Parliament House in Canberra came alive with the spirit of cricket and camaraderie as the PM’s XI Gala Dinner 2024 celebrated the enduring Australia-India relationship, recently.
Hosted by the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) and Cricket ACT, the sold-out event welcomed over 400 prominent guests, including cricket legends Ravi Shastri, Tim Paine, and Scott Boland, who shared inspiring stories of their cricketing journeys. Former Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr, and India’s Deputy High Commissioner Suneet Mehta were among the dignitaries present.
Assistant Minister Julian Hill, speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing cricket’s unique ability to bridge cultures and strengthen ties across governments, businesses, and communities.
Adding vibrancy to the evening, Bollywood dancers enthralled the audience with a colorful display of Indian culture, further showcasing the cultural connection between the two nations.
The event highlighted cricket’s pivotal role in fostering Australia-India collaboration beyond sport, with growing partnerships in sectors like education, infrastructure, and defence. The AIBC and Cricket ACT reaffirmed their commitment to initiatives like the PM’s XI Gala Dinner, which celebrate shared values and deepen bilateral ties.
The evening was a powerful symbol of friendship and partnership, demonstrating how cricket continues to unite two great nations.
