New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon shared pictures of him and former New Zealand cricketer Ross Taylor playing ‘gully cricket’ with children in New Delhi.

In a post on X, Luxon said, “Nothing unites New Zealand and India more than our shared love of cricket,” highlighting the deep-rooted connection both countries share through the sport.

Earlier on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was amused by Luxon’s witty remark about the Champions Trophy 2025 final. During his address, Luxon joked that he had intentionally avoided mentioning cricket and the final to prevent a “diplomatic incident.”

“I really appreciate that PM Modi didn’t bring up New Zealand’s Champions Trophy loss to India, and I didn’t mention our Test victories in India. Let’s keep it that way and avoid a diplomatic incident,” Luxon said while PM Modi was seen laughing at the banter.

Taylor was also in attendance and even he was left amused by the banter between the two world leaders during the event.

India defeated New Zealand in the summit clash to claim the Champions Trophy 2025 title in Dubai last month.

Luxon had also praised the Indian cricket team for their dominant display in recent times.

“During PM Modi’s tenure, the men in blue (Indian cricket team) have been the most dominant side in cricket, most recently winning the Champions Trophy in Dubai against my men in black (New Zealand cricket team). They broke many many New Zealanders’ hearts in the process, including mine. I will be the bigger person and just say congratulations,” Luxon said.

(With agency input)