Ashes in India: Cricket Australia is open to exploring the possibility of staging the landmark 150th Ashes Test in India, a move that underscores the growing commercial influence of the Indian cricket market. Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg confirmed that while no current plans exist to take the match outside Australia, the idea of hosting an Ashes in India could be considered in the future.
The 150th anniversary Test between Australia and England is scheduled for March next year. Greenberg stated on the BBC’s Stumped podcast that the board would consider all options, highlighting Cricket Australia’s strong relationships with the ECB and BCCI. He noted there are clear opportunities to put more content into certain areas, though such a shift is not currently planned.
This consideration comes as Cricket Australia expands its footprint in India. This December, the Big Bash League will stage a match in Chennai, bringing Australian cricket closer to Indian fans. India remains the sport’s biggest audience, and a marquee Ashes in India would generate enormous interest and create fresh commercial opportunities, similar to how the ECB expects substantial profits from recent white-ball matches against India.
However, Greenberg acknowledged that scheduling a five-day Test would be challenging due to India’s packed calendar, including the IPL. He noted that Test cricket between Australia, England, and India remains strong. The idea of an Ashes in India reflects the sport’s evolving global landscape, where India’s market power continues to shape major cricket events.