New Delhi: Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marlis used Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL 2026 title win as an example of the strong ties between India and Australia. RCB spoke a day after their second consecutive win by defeating Gujarat Titans. IPL Trophy, Marles explained how the Indian star Virat Kohli And Australian players Josh Hazlewood And Tim David Everyone played an important role in the win.Marles said the trio’s partnership reflects how the two countries are increasingly working together in a variety of fields. “When I was here last year, it was the morning after the Indian Premier League final, like this morning. Last night, as we saw a year ago, we saw RCB triumph. But I love the fact that Virat Kohli was not out on 75 and was man of the match, but he was accompanied by Josh Hazlewood and Tim David. So the Australian Indian bilateral theme was very much in play last night as RCB won the IPL. And this is a symbol of the relationship between our two countries,” he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.Speaking further at the “Manoble” community event in New Delhi, Marles highlighted Kohli’s immense popularity in Australia and recalled growing up watching the Indian cricket legends. “Virat Kohli is a huge name in Australia right now, but as I grew up, I remembered Indian cricket captain Bishan Bedi first; he was the big name of that era,” he added.He further said that cricket is a strong bond between the two countries and helps in strengthening the broader relationship.Marles also expressed his excitement about meeting the 1983 World Cup-winning captain. Kapil Dev in the ceremony. Calling it a memorable experience, he said, “It’s a thrill for me to stand alongside the great Kapil Dev… The relationship between Australia and India is at an all-time high… In many ways, the passion we share for life is embodied in our passion for cricket.”
