DUBAI: The Australian cricket team received a special treat on Wednesday evening as they were invited to tour Australian warship HMAS Toowoomba, which is docked at Port Rashid.
The Australian embassy honoured the team that is here to play against Pakistan on the deck of the ship in the presence of guests from various walks of life. The team, led by Twenty20 captain Aaron Finch, received a huge ovation, with Ashes hero Mitchell Johnson getting the biggest applause.
Legendary wicketkeeper Rodney Marsh, who is the chief selector of the team, was also present.
Shaikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development and Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board, conveyed a message through Australian Ambassador Pablo Kang, saying the UAE is committed to being good hosts from a safety and security perspective.
The Ambassadors of New Zealand and also Sri Lanka graced the occasion, along with David East, the chief executive of the Emirates Cricket Board.
The players interacted with the officers, with Commander Catherine Hayes thanking the team for taking time off to visit the ship. They stayed on board for more than three hours.
Australian team coach Darren Lehmann addressed the gathering on behalf of the team and presented a personalised, autographed jersey to Ambassador Kang.
