During the coin toss of an Indian Premier League match, Pat Cummins, the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad, playfully referenced the Australian team's victory over India in the 2023 World Cup final held in the same stadium, evoking memories of India's defeat. Cummins's remark, "We have got wonderful memories of Ahmedabad," recalled the World Cup final where Australia emerged victorious. However, unlike their World Cup triumph, Cummins's Sunrisers Hyderabad faced a seven-wicket defeat against Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill.
Pat Cummins Taunts India with 'Wonderful Memories' Remark at SRH vs. GT Coin Toss
Ahmedabad, March 31, 2023 - Pat Cummins, the enigmatic captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), stirred a hornet's nest of emotions during the coin toss of Sunday's Indian Premier League (IPL) match against the Gujarat Titans (GT).
Cummins, evidently harboring vivid recollections of his team's triumph over India in the 2023 World Cup final held at the same hallowed Narendra Modi Stadium, couldn't resist a sly dig at the hosts. With a wry smirk and a mischievous twinkle in his eye, he remarked, "We have got wonderful memories of Ahmedabad."
The remark reverberated through the packed stadium, evoking a chorus of both laughter and groans. It was a tongue-in-cheek reminder of the bitter disappointment India endured in that fateful World Cup final, where they succumbed to a six-wicket defeat at the hands of Cummins' Australia.
Undeterred by the hostile reception, Cummins continued his banter, explaining SRH's decision to bat first. "We are gonna bat first. Looks a good wicket and it's very warm. So, happy to bat first. Yeah, have got wonderful memories here. It was a packed-stadium last time I played here and good to be back here," he said.
"It's about the freedom. We know what we are capable of and trying to have a crack at it and see how it goes today. We are going with the same team," Cummins added in a seemingly carefree manner.
However, the SRH captain's well-timed sledging ultimately proved to be a case of premature triumphalism. Despite his team's aspirations, the GT, led by the in-form Shubman Gill, rose to the challenge, securing a comfortable seven-wicket victory. This result marked SRH's second loss in its opening matches of the IPL season.
Pat Cummins' audacious taunting serves as a stark reminder that the rivalry between India and Australia remains as fierce as ever, both on and off the field. As the IPL progresses, it is certain that Cummins' "wonderful memories" will continue to fuel the competitive spirit and ignite the passions of fans on both sides of the cricketing divide.
