Royal Australian Navy sailors stationed in the United States have been strengthening international bonds through an unexpected, but Australian pastime: cricket.

As part of the AUKUS engagement at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Goose Creek, South Carolina, Australian and United States Navy personnel came together over three days for a series of indoor cricket activities that mixed cultural exchange with a good dose of friendly competition.

Physical training instructor Chief Petty Officer Jacob Machen led the effort, introducing United States Navy sailors to the rules, rhythm and spirit of the game. 

What is normally a training space was quickly transformed into a lively, good‑humoured arena where players learned, laughed and had a go at a sport many were trying for the first time.

Leading Seaman Chiswell said it was great to step away from training and share some Aussie backyard cricket with United States shipmates. 

“What started pretty casually quickly turned into proper bowling, some nice shots and a few solid catches, and everyone’s already keen to get back out of the classroom and onto the field again,” Leading Seaman Chiswell said.

Through laughs, collaboration and a bit of healthy competition, sailors from Australia and the United States strengthened relationships and showed how everyday activities can help deepen trust and build even stronger cooperation across the AUKUS partnership.