Cricket’s brush with royalty

While visiting Christchurch, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge learnt about the development of the tournament’s opening venue, Hagley Oval, and took part in a cricket game involving local school children and New Zealand cricket legends Sir Richard Hadlee and Debbie Hockley.

In images that were beamed across the world, the Duchess of Cambridge faced up to the bowling of her husband the Duke of Cambridge to show off the friendly rivalry between the pair.

The visit was more than just about sport for Christchurch, though. Following the devastating 2011 earthquakes, the hosting of ICC Cricket World Cup matches is another step in the recovery of the city.

In Sydney, the royal couple was treated to an audience with Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath and Southern Stars all-rounder Ellyse Perry, and met with children representing all 14 ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 teams.

They were also presented with specially commissioned cricket bats painted by Sydney Koori artist Daren Dunn and a ‘baby’ baggy green for His Royal Highness Prince George.

ICC Cricket World Cup Chief Executive John Harnden said: “The events in Christchurch and Sydney allowed us to not only showcase the tournament to the royal couple, but also provide the world a glimpse of what to expect when the tournament begins on 14 February 2015.”