Modi in Australia: India-Australia Sports Collaboration Roadmap Unveiled with Historic Big Bash League in Chennai
Modi in Australia: Landmark Sports Partnership Set to Transform Cricket & Youth Engagement
Melbourne, July 10, 2026: In a powerful boost to bilateral ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese today unveiled the ambitious India-Australia Sports Collaboration Roadmap at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This game-changing initiative highlights the historic first-ever Big Bash League (BBL) match to be played in India, marking a new era of sporting excellence between the two nations.
The roadmap focuses on key areas including sports training and capacity building, advanced sports science and technology, and massive opportunities in the sports industry and investment. As part of this exciting collaboration, the opening match of the upcoming BBL season will see Melbourne Renegades take on defending champions Perth Scorchers at MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) in Chennai this December.
This will be the first time a foreign cricket league match is staged in India, promising massive excitement for fans across the country. The announcement is the centrepiece of the week-long “G’Day Namaste” festival, featuring Australian cultural, business, and sporting events throughout India.
Speaking at the event, PM Modi emphasized that sports have a unique power to unite people. He congratulated Australia on their Women’s Cricket World Cup victory and highlighted upcoming mega events — India hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and Australia staging the Brisbane Olympics in 2032 — as golden opportunities for deeper cooperation.
“Australia and India are united by our love and passion for sport. This sports roadmap will focus on practical priority areas such as capability building, technology and research,” said PM Albanese. The partnership is expected to drive trade, tourism, and investment while bringing joy to millions of sports enthusiasts in both countries.
The leaders also interacted with young athletes during exhibitions of kabaddi, Australian Football, and cricket. An India-Australia Youth Sports Festival will further strengthen people-to-people connections.
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan, legendary cricketers Steve Waugh and Lisa Sthalekar were present at the grand event.
This breakthrough comes as sport continues to be a key pillar of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Cricket fans are already buzzing with anticipation for the BBL clash at Chepauk — one of the most passionate venues in world cricket.
Stay tuned for live updates on Modi in Australia visit and its impact on India-Australia relations.
