WATCH- Hobart Hurricanes’ Indian recruit meets idol Brett Lee
Nikhil Chaudhary, an Indian-born cricketer has taken the Big Bash League (BBL) by storm in his debut season for the Hobart Hurricanes. Chaudhary, only the second Indian-born player, after Unmukt Chand, to […]
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Jan 5, 2024 1:03 pm
Nikhil Chaudhary and Brett Lee
Nikhil Chaudhary, an Indian-born cricketer has taken the Big Bash League (BBL) by storm in his debut season for the Hobart Hurricanes. Chaudhary, only the second Indian-born player, after Unmukt Chand, to feature in the BBL, has impressed everyone with his explosive batting style and versatility. He can clear the ropes with easy play and audacious shots all around the wicket, and by chipping in with handy contributions with the ball as a right-arm off-spinner.
Some of Chaudhary’s standout performances in the BBL 13 include a quickfire 32 off 16 balls against the Melbourne Stars, where he took apart the Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf, a crucial 28 off 18 balls against the Sydney Sixers, helping the Hurricanes secure a thrilling victory and a well-rounded performance of 22 runs and 2 wickets against the Brisbane Heat. Chaudhary’s infectious enthusiasm and positive attitude have also won him over the hearts of Hurricanes fans. His on-field celebrations, often inspired by Indian cricketers like Shikhar Dhawan, have become a popular feature of the BBL.
Not many know that a few years back, Chaudhary yearned to unleash thunderbolts with the action of his Aussie idol, Brett Lee. Fate, however, had other plans, leading him to carve his niche as a dynamic all-rounder. Recently, a moment of kismet brought these boyhood aspirations close. Mic’d up on the field, Nikhil found himself face-to-face with Lee, who surprised him with a friendly greeting in Hindi. “Aap kaise ho?” the Aussie legend boomed. “Your Hindi is too good mate,” the 27-year-old said in response.
Chaudhary meets Brett Lee
A fanboy moment for Nikhil Chaudhary meeting Brett Lee.
Post the game, Chaudhary got an opportunity to meet the legend as well. Pads still strapped on, he sprinted out of the field, a youthful exuberance propelling him towards the legendary Brett Lee. The crowd erupted in cheers, their shared delight palpable. Reaching Lee, Chaudhary requested a selfie, a trophy for any aspiring cricketer. Lee, ever the amiable giant, readily agreed. Their exchange wasn’t just about capturing a moment.
“I loved your celebration,” Lee boomed, his voice carrying the warmth of genuine appreciation. They ended up taking a picture with the celebration pose as well and the moment was absolutely for viewers.
