Belgium's royal couple try their hand at cricket at Azad Maidan

On Friday morning, the Royal couple from Belgium, who are on a seven-day visit to India, got to know the country's religion — cricket — a little better. At Oval Maidan, King Phillipe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium tried their hand at the sport with around 20 children from BMC schools. Indian cricket legend, Virender Sehwag, was also present to guide the royal couple and dish out some quick tips before the match. The duo was raising awareness regarding the importance of school and sports for children and for a safe and secure environment.

"She played well," said Sana Ansari, a 14-year-old who bowled two balls of an Over to the Queen.

"It felt good to play with the royals. The queen first asked whether I know to play cricket," said Tanvir Akhtar of Megraj School, run by the civic body in Byculla, who bowled an over to the King.

Not just students, Sehwag, too, said he was elated to play with the royals. "It is once in a lifetime opportunity. I am excited to play with the King and Queen," said Sehwag before the match. He added, "It is important that we encourage children to play sports and especially support girls."

Students also cherished the interaction with the royal couple. "They asked us why do we like to play the sport and how does it help. They then told us that we should keep playing as it helps us to be healthy and also improves concentration," said Ashish Thakur, a 15-year-old student of Abhyudhyanagar BMC School.