Australian envoy says cricket 'fundamental part' of relation with India

Australian High Commissioner Patrick Suckling on Sunday said cricket is a fundamental part of the close relationship between India and Australia, adding that the sport forges closeness, understanding and enthusiasm for one another.

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"Cricket is a fundamental part of a very close relationship between India and Australia...I have written before that cricket is a wonderful way of bringing our two countries together, there is a real connection between our people through cricket," Suckling said.

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"It brings closeness, understanding and enthusiasm for one another. This world cup has demonstrated that," he added.

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The High Commissioner lauded the Indian team's performance in the 2015 World Cup, saying the Men in Blue showed incredible skill and played with great aplomb.

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"India had a great tournament, they gave great joy to hundreds and millions of their fans. They played with great aplomb, with great finesse and showed incredible skill," Suckling said.

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"Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, as Prime Minister says. They played well and they did their best, they are thoroughly appreciated, they made a great contribution to the fantastic world cup," he added.

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The High Commissioner also hoped for the Australian cricket team's victory in the World Cup final match against New Zealand, which is currently being played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

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India's World Cup campaign came to an end when they lost to Australia by 95 runs in the tournament's semi-final match at Sydney.