Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand’s Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay combined diplomacy with sportsmanship as the two leaders played a friendly cricket match in Mumbai on Monday. The interaction came as part of McClay’s visit to India, aimed at advancing the long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries. The symbolic sporting gesture reflected the growing warmth in India–New Zealand ties amid progress in trade negotiations.

Sharing the moment on X, Piyush Goyal wrote, “Clean bowled by India–New Zealand friendship! I thank my friend Todd McClay for sportingly agreeing to face a few balls at the Khasdar Krida Mahotsav. It is a winning partnership, both on and off the field.” Goyal also posted a short video of the exchange, adding that McClay’s participation gave an “international spin” to the event, which was held in North Mumbai.

According to reports from All India Radio, Todd McClay arrived in Mumbai on November 17, marking another step forward in bilateral economic discussions. His visit follows Goyal’s recent trip to New Zealand, where both sides concluded the fourth round of FTA talks. The ministers are now expected to hold a series of meetings this week to finalise the framework for the trade agreement, which aims to boost cooperation in investment, agriculture, tourism, and technology.

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At the event, Piyush Goyal underlined that India and New Zealand share a “dynamic partnership” built on shared values and mutual respect. He said the two nations are exploring ways to enhance economic engagement while also deepening collaboration in areas such as sports and education. The cricket event, he noted, symbolised trust and teamwork—key qualities that define both countries’ approach to diplomacy and trade.

New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay echoed similar optimism, reaffirming his country’s commitment to completing the FTA negotiations soon. “New Zealand remains dedicated to reaching a fair and balanced trade agreement that benefits citizens and businesses on both sides,” he said. McClay also attended cultural and business gatherings in Mumbai, signalling a renewed effort to strengthen India–New Zealand relations both diplomatically and economically.

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