Michael Clarke meets Haryana CM to discuss cricket development

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Chandigarh, June 9

Former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke met Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in Chandigarh and discussed cricket development, youth talent and opportunities to strengthen sporting ties between India and Australia.

The meeting took place at the chief minister’s official residence, where both sides spoke about encouraging young cricketers and expanding sporting engagement between the two countries.

Clarke praised Haryana’s sporting culture and said the state has the potential to produce many more talented cricketers in the coming years.

“Haryana has produced some outstanding athletes, and there is no shortage of sporting talent here. I believe the state has the potential to produce many more quality cricketers in the years to come,” Clarke said.

The former Australian captain also expressed interest in helping young players gain international exposure through exchange programmes between India and Australia.

“I have been bringing young Australian players to India and would also like to create opportunities for young Indian players to visit Australia. Such exchanges can help young cricketers learn from different environments and gain valuable international exposure,” he said.

Clarke further said he would be keen to explore establishing a cricket academy in Haryana in the future.

During the meeting, Clarke and Saini also played cricket on the lawns of the chief minister’s residence. The Haryana chief minister tried his hand at batting while Clarke bowled during the friendly interaction.

“It was great meeting the chief minister. His love and passion for cricket are commendable. I bowled a ball to him, and he hit it for a six,” Clarke said.

Welcoming Clarke, Saini said Haryana remains committed to strengthening its sporting ecosystem and providing young athletes with opportunities to excel at the highest level.

He added that interactions with internationally recognised sportspersons inspire aspiring athletes and contribute to the growth of sports in the state.

Clarke, who captained Australia in Tests and One Day Internationals between 2011 and 2015, was in Chandigarh for commentary duties during the India-Afghanistan Test match in Mullanpur, Punjab.