William and Kate visit host city ahead of World Cup
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge showed off their cricket skills today as the royal pair attended an ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 event in Christchurch.With his wife on strike, Prince William rolled the arm over, offering up a couple of friendly full-tosses to help get the Princess off the mark. When tasked with a young kiwi batsman, the Duke found his line and length, forcing a sturdy forward defence from the junior.
Word of Australia’s intimidatory bowling during the Ashes must have drifted across the Tasman, as the Prince was greeted with head-high full tosses when he took over at the crease.
Unlike his countrymen, Prince William calmly negotiated the threatening deliveries before sending a few over the bowler’s head.
Christchurch’s Hagley Oval will host the opening ceremony and three pool matches, including the first match between hosts New Zealand and 2011 runners-up Sri Lanka.
World Cup ambassador and Blackcaps legend Richard Hadlee said the occasion wasn’t lost on those who met the famous couple.
“It’s a very special occasion for those who attended, especially the youngsters who had the opportunity to meet royalty, and for even us old fellas too,” said New Zealand’s greatest cricketer.
“It’s absolutely wonderful and I think it shows that the royals really care in showing a lot of interest in the activities and what we’re doing here in Christchurch.”
William and Kate will be at the Australian event on Wednesday in Sydney.
