London, 14 October (H.S.): Former India captain Sourav Ganguly and Ajinkya Rahane, along with several prominent figures from the cricketing world, participated in a friendly tennis-ball cricket match with Prince William of Britain in London. The special event aimed to celebrate the shared passion for cricket between India and the United Kingdom while raising awareness about environmental conservation. It was organised as part of the countdown to the Earthshot Prize ceremony, scheduled to take place in Mumbai next month.

According to a statement issued by The Royal Foundation, the match was played on The Mall, the ceremonial avenue outside Buckingham Palace. The historic thoroughfare is traditionally used for royal occasions and grand processions. The event also featured several celebrated cricketers, including West Indies legend Brian Lara and England stars Joe Root and Harry Brook.

Rahane, who has recently bid farewell to a distinguished cricketing career, shared his experience of the occasion in a LinkedIn post on Wednesday. He described playing tennis-ball cricket on The Mall, with Buckingham Palace providing a magnificent backdrop, as an unforgettable experience that would remain with him for years to come.

“Cricket has taken me to some incredible grounds around the world, but playing tennis-ball cricket on The Mall in London, with Buckingham Palace in the background, is an experience that will stay with me for a long time,” Rahane wrote.

He added, “The day was about celebrating the shared love of cricket between India and the UK, but, more importantly, it was about highlighting a cause that extends far beyond the boundaries of sport. It was a privilege to spend time with Prince William and meet Dada, Brian Lara, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Danny and other wonderful personalities from the world of sport.”

Rahane said the gathering also provided an opportunity to reflect on cricket’s unifying power, reminisce about experiences of playing in England and India, and discuss their shared responsibility towards the future.

Mumbai to Host Earthshot Prize Ceremony on November 17

Emphasising the importance of environmental conservation, Rahane said collective action was essential to protect nature, preserve clean air and oceans, reduce waste and tackle climate change. He noted that sport instils values such as discipline, teamwork and a commitment to putting in an honest effort—all of which are equally vital in the collective endeavour to safeguard the planet.

Prince William launched the Earthshot Prize in 2020 to identify, encourage and support innovative ideas and technologies capable of addressing environmental challenges and helping protect the planet.

The sixth edition of the prestigious award will be held in India for the first time, with the ceremony scheduled to take place in Mumbai on November 17. Rahane also expressed his enthusiasm about welcoming the event to his hometown.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar