Bhopal: After taking in the sights and sounds at the City of Lakes since arriving for an upcoming series against India, the Australian Under-18 hockey teams have now developed a fondness for Bhopal's biryani. The players and coaches are enthusiastically praising the dish, along with the warm hospitality and other spicy culinary delights the host city has to offer.
Coaches Rave About Local Cuisine
Dan Mitchell, the coach of the Australian Under-18 men's team, could not contain his excitement for the local cuisine. A frequent visitor to India, Mitchell recounted how his players were determined to sample biryani as soon as they landed in the city. "I had sampled Indian food before and just as I mentioned how much I loved the biryani here during one of my earlier visits, the boys said they wanted to have it right away. We thoroughly enjoyed it," the coach told TOI. He added that several team members have already taken a liking to a variety of spicy Indian dishes, a departure for many who are accustomed to milder Australian flavors.
Women's Team Coach Echoes Sentiment
Matt Cook, coach of the Australian Under-18 women's team, also praised Bhopal's biryani—fragrant rice layered with tender meat and vegetables, slow-cooked and served hot with a delectable blend of spices. "How can anyone come to Bhopal and not try the biryani? It is simply outstanding," Cook said, giving a ringing endorsement of the delicacy. He added, "We would love to return and play a series here—both the food and the hospitality are excellent."
As the young athletes settled into the city and prepared for their matches, the coaches commended the top-notch care provided, from sumptuous meals to seamless arrangements. The Australian Under-18 teams are set to feature in a four-match bilateral series against India in the Madhya Pradesh capital and have already been impressed by the city's rich culinary heritage. Coach Mitchell noted that the teams and support staff were being "very well looked after," putting them at ease before the action unfolds on unfamiliar turf.
