“An Experience that will stay with me”: Ajinkya Rahane on playing cricket with Prince William at Buckingham Palace

Photo credit: The Royal Foundation

Former India Test captain Ajinkya Rahane recently joined cricketing legends and members of royalty in London for a friendly tennis-ball cricket match celebrating the upcoming Earthshot Prize awards, which are set to be held in Mumbai next month.

Invited by HRH Prince William, Rahane participated in the unique event held on The Mall, outside Buckingham Palace, bringing together Indian and international cricket legends, including Sourav Ganguly, Brian Lara, Joe Root and Harry Brook. The event highlighted the shared love for cricket between India and the UK while drawing attention to environmental sustainability.

Reflecting on the memorable occasion, Rahane said in a press release: “Cricket has taken me to some remarkable venues across the world, but playing tennis-ball cricket right on The Mall in London with Buckingham Palace in the backdrop is an experience that will stay with me for a long time.”

“Yesterday was about celebrating the shared love for the game between India and the UK, but more importantly, shining a light on a cause that matters far beyond the boundary ropes. It was a privilege to spend time with HRH Prince William and catch up with wonderful friends and icons of the sport Dada, Brian Lara, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Danni and everyone else who brought so much joy to the pitch. We spoke about the unifying spirit of cricket, our memories of playing in England and back home in India, and the responsibility we share toward the future.”

Rahane also expressed excitement about the Earthshot Prize arriving in Mumbai this November, highlighting the importance of collective efforts to protect the planet. “Repairing and protecting our planet across nature, clean air, oceans, waste reduction and climate requires the same values the sport teaches us every day. Discipline, collective effort and genuine intent. A memorable morning in London for a cause that deserves all of our support”, Rahane stated.

The Earthshot Prize was launched by Prince William in 2020 and recognises and supports innovative solutions to environmental challenges across five categories: nature, clean air, oceans, waste reduction and climate. The sixth edition will make its India debut in Mumbai on November 17, 2026.

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