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The New Ashes: and India**
Cricket Australia is keen to elevate the significance of the upcoming series against India, viewing it as a pivotal moment in the sport's landscape. With expectations of drawing 90,000 fans on
Boxing Day—an impressive feat achieved only once before in a Test match—this series is set to redefine the dynamics of Australian cricket.
Kicking off in Perth this Friday, this five-Test series marks the first of its kind between Australia and India since the 1991-92 season. It signifies a shift in the Australian summer cricket calendar, positioning India as a key rival alongside England. This change reflects a broader strategy to enhance attendance and financial returns, which are crucial for Cricket Australia.
Looking ahead, the presence of India's men's team will become a more regular feature in Australia, while the country's top female cricketers will be heading overseas to participate in the growing Women's
Premier League (WPL) starting in 2026. This evolution in scheduling and competition underscores the importance of the Australia-India rivalry, which is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of the cricketing calendar.
Question 1: What is the significance of the upcoming Test series between Australia and India?
The upcoming Test series is significant as it marks the first five-Test contest between Australia and India since 1991-92, highlighting the growing rivalry and importance of India as a cricketing partner for Australia.
Question 2: What are Cricket Australia's attendance goals for the Boxing Day Test?
Cricket Australia officials are hopeful of attracting 90,000 fans for the Boxing Day Test, aiming to achieve this milestone for only the second time in history.
Question 3: How is the series expected to impact the future of Australian summers?
The series is part of a radical new look for Australian summers, with India becoming a more regular fixture in the cricket calendar, while Australia's top women players will participate in the Women's Premier League (WPL) during the peak season starting in 2026.
Question 4: How does this series compare to Australia's traditional rivals?
This series elevates India to the same level as England as Australia's most important cricketing rival, indicating a shift in focus and partnership in the sport.