In the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24 match between the Hobart Hurricanes and the Melbourne Renegades at Melbourne’s Docklands Stadium, former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee showcased his Hindi-speaking skills while engaging with Nikhil Chaudhary.
During the commentary, the panel, including Lee, directed their conversation towards Chaudhary to discuss the on-field events. Lee, seizing the opportunity, conversed with the Indian-origin player in Hindi, saying on-air, “Nikhil, Brett Lee yahan. Aap kaise ho? Aap se milke khushi hui.”
Chaudhary, impressed by Lee’s fluent Hindi, complimented him, saying, “Your Hindi is too good, mate!”
Nikhil Chaudhary, a rare Indian-born player in the BBL, hails from Punjab and has participated in four matches this season for the Hurricanes. He has notably scored 72 runs with a strike rate of 153.19 and secured two wickets. Chaudhary bowled two overs in the ongoing match against the Renegades, claiming the wicket of Quinton de Kock while conceding 16 runs.
Brett Lee has demonstrated his affection for India on multiple occasions. Throughout his playing career, he toured India extensively and played for Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Additionally, he starred in the Indo-Australian film “UnIndian” and collaborated with Asha Bhosle in the song “You’re the one for me,” penned by Lee himself. Released in 2006, the song gained popularity in Indian circles.
"Your Hindi is too good, mate!"
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 4, 2024
Nikhil was impressed by Binga! @BrettLee_58 #BBL13 pic.twitter.com/pM1DxJiOwh
During the 2023 IPL, while serving as a commentator, Lee was seen conversing in Hindi with a couple of fans who approached him for a selfie while riding a scooter. He politely requested them to take it easy (“Aaram se, Aaram se”) and advised them to wear a helmet in the future.
