**The New Ashes: The Intensifying Rivalry Between Australia 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.