The Big Bash League will stage its inaugural match outside Australia, with Chennai selected to host the opening fixture of the 2026/27 season.
Defending champions Perth Scorchers will face Melbourne Renegades at MA Chidambaram Stadium on December 12, a historic milestone for Australian domestic cricket and the deepening cricket ties between India and Australia.
Chennai to host historic BBL opener
The game is scheduled to start at 2:40 PM IST, following the fourth day of the opening Test between Australia and New Zealand in Perth.
The joint announcement was made by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at an event held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with both governments endorsing the move as part of wider sporting and diplomatic cooperation.
Why is the BBL coming to India?
Cricket Australia anticipates that even a single BBL fixture in India will greatly enhance the league’s appeal in the world’s largest cricket market.
“Our sport has such an authentic connection in India,” Cricket Australia General Manager of Big Bash Leagues Alistair Dobson said.
#WATCH | Melbourne, Australia | Accompanying PM Modi at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says, “Today I announced that Australia will bring the Big Bash League to India for the first time. The season opener for this summers Big Bash… pic.twitter.com/vxXyWD7nV97
— ANI (@ANI) July 10, 2026
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