In a memorable cultural and sporting exchange, Team India captain Rohit Sharma presented a Team India cricket jersey to Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, marking a symbolic gesture during the royal’s official visit to India.
The presentation took place at the Dubai-India Business Forum in Mumbai, where Sheikh Hamdan met prominent Indian cricketers including Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav, alongside International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah.
A Jersey with Symbolism
The gifted jersey bore the number 11, representing not just the eleven players of a cricket team but also symbolizing a new chapter in the ever-strengthening India-UAE ties.
Sheikh Hamdan later shared photographs from the meeting on Instagram, captioning them in Hindi:
“Team India ke saath ek yaadgaar mulaqat”
(A memorable meeting with Team India)
Cricket Diplomacy in Motion
ICC Chairman Jay Shah expressed pride in the gathering, stating on X:
Delighted to help connect cricket with visionary leadership in Mumbai… At the ICC, we remain committed to elevating cricket on the global stage and building partnerships that resonate with diverse audiences.
He highlighted how cricket continues to serve as a bridge between cultures and nations, with such moments showcasing the unifying power of the sport.
Strategic Visit to Strengthen Bilateral Ties
The Crown Prince’s visit — his first official trip to India — comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With a focus on trade, energy, digital innovation, and bilateral cooperation, the visit underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and the UAE.
