Pat Cummins calls India ‘second home’; reveals he wants to take Virat Kohli on an Australian trip (Exclusive)

Australia cricketer Pat Cummins is currently in India for the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Pat calls India his second home. “I’ve been lucky to spend lots of time there over the last 15 years playing for Australia and in the Indian Premier League, most recently as captain of the Sunrisers Hyderabad. India has such a rich culture from the vibrant markets to historic temples, and of course the amazing food. The energy in places like Mumbai and Delhi is infectious. It’s a place full of contrasts, where history and modernity come together in the most fascinating ways. Earlier this year my whole extended family joined me for their first visit to India which was so special to experience together,” he states.
Fresh from being appointed as the advocate for the Australian Tourism Board, the Australian skipper shares his excitement about showcasing the country's beauty, culture, and passion for sports.

"I'm proud to be part of Tourism Australia's Friends of Australia program and their latest campaign Howzat for a holiday, which aims to showcase Australia as a destination to India amongst the excitement of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy," Pat says. "Australia as a destination sells itself - from our endless coastline to our unique animals, thriving restaurant scene, and of course the shared love of sport."
If he had to plan a dream itinerary for Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, Pat would include a mix of cricket, adventure, culture, and relaxation. "This itinerary would offer a blend of cricket, adventure, culture, and relaxation, with experiences in some of Australia's most iconic locations," he shares.

Ask him if he has a favourite Indian cuisine and he quickly shares, “The flavours, the spices, the variety - there’s so much to enjoy about Indian cuisine. I’m a big fan of butter chicken, naan and also love the variety of vegetarian options, like dal and paneer dishes which are always packed with flavour. Whenever I’m in Mumbai, it’s a must I get a Pav Bhajji and when playing for the Sunrisers I always take any guests out for a biryani.”

Coming to the sport, Pat also addresses the media scrutiny that he goes through: “The media, especially in a cricket-loving nation like Australia, can be unforgiving so I take a pragmatic approach and as a public figure I understand it’s part of the package. I don’t let negativity distract me and appreciate the importance of keeping things in perspective, good or bad.”