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The development comes after Cricket Australia confirmed that the 2026-27 Big Bash League (BBL) season will begin in Chennai, making it the first official BBL match to be played outside Australia. Reports suggest Cricket Australia is now hoping for a reciprocal gesture, with discussions underway over the possibility of hosting an IPL fixture on Australian soil.

Although the BCCI has not made any official announcement, the proposal has sparked excitement among cricket fans across both countries.

Why RCB could be ideal team to play in Australia?

If the BCCI decides to accept Cricket Australia's invitation, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) could emerge as the strongest candidate to feature in the historic match.

The biggest reason is Virat Kohli! Kohli enjoys an enormous fan following in Australia, built over more than a decade of memorable performances across Tests, ODIs and T20Is. Whether playing at the MCG, SCG or Adelaide Oval, the former India captain consistently attracts huge crowds, with many Australian supporters also admiring his aggressive style and remarkable consistency.

An IPL match featuring Kohli and RCB would likely generate exceptional ticket demand, television ratings and global interest.

Virat Kohli's popularity extends beyond India

Virat Kohli is one of the most recognised cricketers in the world and remains among the biggest attractions in franchise cricket.

His popularity in Australia has grown through several iconic performances, including memorable Test centuries, match-winning ODI knocks and standout T20 innings. Every India-Australia series featuring Kohli has drawn packed stadiums and massive television audiences.

From a commercial perspective, an RCB match in Australia would be one of the most marketable options available to organisers.

BBL's Chennai opener could pave the way

The possibility of an IPL match in Australia has gained momentum after the announcement that Melbourne Renegades will face Perth Scorchers at Chennai's M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on December 12.

The fixture will become the first overseas domestic T20 league match played in India and forms part of the broader India-Australia Sports Collaboration Roadmap announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Cricket Australia reportedly hopes the initiative will become an annual event while also encouraging similar collaborations with the IPL.

India and Australia strengthen sporting ties

The newly announced Sports Collaboration Roadmap focuses on expanding cooperation in sports science, athlete development, coaching, technology and investment.

Both countries also plan to launch an India-Australia Youth Sports Festival to strengthen ties between young athletes and deepen sporting exchanges.

The agreement reflects the growing relationship between two of cricket's biggest nations, with India preparing to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and Australia set to stage the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

Could IPL history be created?

For now, the idea of an IPL match in Australia remains under discussion, and no teams have been officially shortlisted.

However, if the proposal receives the BCCI's approval, RCB could have a strong chance of being selected because of Virat Kohli's unmatched popularity in Australia and the commercial value such a fixture would bring.

A packed stadium, worldwide television audience and the opportunity to take the IPL to a new market would make the event one of the biggest moments in franchise cricket history.