New Delhi, June 1 (H.S.): Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles, who is currently on a visit to India, lavished praise on Indian cricket star Virat Kohli, saying that he is an enormously popular figure in Australia today. He remarked that cricket has become a symbol of the strong relationship between India and Australia.

Speaking at the “Manobal” programme, Marles also expressed his admiration for Indian cricket legends Kapil Dev and Bishan Singh Bedi. He said, “It is a matter of great pride for me to stand alongside a great player like Kapil Dev. India-Australia relations are currently at their highest level. Our shared outlook on life is also reflected in our mutual love for cricket.”

Marles recalled that while growing up, the name most frequently associated with Indian cricket was Bishan Singh Bedi. He added, “Today, Virat Kohli is a huge name in Australia, but during my childhood, Bishan Singh Bedi was the face of Indian cricket.”

Appreciating the cultural and sporting ties between India and Australia, Marles also referred to Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s title-winning campaign in the 2026 Indian Premier League. He said, “Last night, Royal Challengers Bengaluru registered a magnificent victory. Virat Kohli remained unbeaten on 75 and was named Player of the Match, but Australian players Josh Hazlewood and Tim David also played crucial roles. This is a wonderful example of the close relationship between India and Australia.”

Notably, Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinched their second consecutive IPL title by defeating Gujarat Titans in the final of the 2026 season. In the summit clash played in Ahmedabad, Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 75 laid the foundation for the team’s victory.

Throughout the tournament, Josh Hazlewood claimed 15 wickets in 13 matches, while Tim David scored 305 runs and delivered several match-winning performances. Both Australian players made significant contributions to Bengaluru’s successful defence of the IPL crown and their second successive championship triumph.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar