PM Modi's Australia Visit Highlights Cricket Legends and BBL Opener in India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent trip to Australia included memorable interactions with cricket legends Steve Waugh and Lisa Sthalekar. The visit culminated in the exciting announcement that the opening match of the Big Bash League 2026-27 will be held in India, specifically at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This event highlights the growing popularity of cricket in India and the strong ties between the two nations. Read on to discover more about Modi's engagements and the significance of the BBL opener.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 10, 2026, 17:53 IST

PM Modi's Engagement with Cricket Icons

On July 10, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his three-day trip to Australia and arrived in New Zealand. During his final day in Australia, he participated in an event at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where he had the opportunity to meet renowned Australian cricketers Steve Waugh and Lisa Sthalekar, who has Indian roots. Modi took a trip down memory lane at the MCG, presenting Waugh with a photograph from two decades ago, recalling their meeting when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Modi has previously held the position of president of the Gujarat Cricket Association.

Waugh, celebrated as one of Australia's finest cricketers, has visited India numerous times post-retirement. His last match for Australia was against India in January 2004, and he concluded his ODI career in February 2002. Throughout his Test career, Waugh amassed 10,927 runs and took 92 wickets across 168 matches. In ODIs, he scored 7,569 runs and claimed 195 wickets, totaling 24,052 runs in 356 first-class games.

Lisa Sthalekar had a distinguished international career spanning 12 years, during which she played eight Tests, 125 ODIs, and 54 T20Is. She accumulated 416 runs in Tests, 2,728 runs in ODIs, and 769 runs in T20Is, finishing her career with 229 wickets.

Big Bash League's Historic Opening Match in India

Big Bash League opener to be played in India

During PM Modi's visit to Australia, it was announced that the inaugural match of the Big Bash League 2026-27 will take place in India. The match is scheduled for December 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, featuring the Perth Scorchers against the Melbourne Renegades. Alistair Dobson, the executive general manager of Big Bash Leagues, expressed enthusiasm about the event, noting the strong cricket fanbase in India, particularly in Chennai. He stated, "We know there are incredibly passionate cricket fans all over India, but particularly in Chennai. Everyone we've spoken to has been really optimistic that we should expect a good crowd." He acknowledged the growing popularity of the BBL in India, saying, "It's got nothing on the IPL, obviously, but the BBL is well-liked and respected. We can't wait to see all the fans turn out, albeit I suspect there'll be a fair chunk of yellow in the crowd."