New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon adopted Indian street culture as he played an impromptu game of ‘gully’ cricket in New Delhi. During an official visit to India, Luxon took a break to join locals for an informal match, referring to cricket as a “shared love” between the countries.
Luxon, who wore casual clothing, was observed engaging in batting and fielding exercises with child players to applause and amusement from the surrounding audience. The spontaneous game took place on a New Delhi street that was congested with traffic, as the PM expressed a carefree nature and solidarity with the neighborhood populace.
Talking to journalists later, Luxon said, “Nothing brings New Zealand and India closer together than cricket. It’s an honor to witness the passion of this lovely game right here.” The Prime Minister also pointed to cricket as a source of deepening cultural and diplomatic relations.
The trip coincides with increasing economic and political partnership between New Zealand and India, with sport remaining a central cultural connector.
