Steve Waugh: Strengthening The Australia-India Connect Beyond Cricket

Last Updated:August 27, 2025, 10:02 IST

From lifting the World Cup trophy to lifting the spirits of children in Kolkata, Steve Waugh now wants to bat for something bigger — the relationship between India and Australia.

Australian cricket legend Steve Waugh speaks to News18. (Image: News18)

In March 2025, legendary Australian cricketer Steve Waugh was appointed to the Advisory Board of the Centre for Australia-India Relations by the Australian government. His mandate: to deepen ties with India in key areas such as sports, education, and innovation. Far from being a ceremonial appointment, Waugh has already plunged into the role with his characteristic passion and commitment.

News18 had the opportunity to meet the World Cup-winning captain at the Centre for Australia-India Relations in Sydney. What unfolded was not just an official interaction, but also an insight into Waugh’s deep emotional connection with India, a bond that has spanned nearly four decades.

Over a simple South Indian lunch at Dosa Hut in Sydney’s Little India, Waugh spoke candidly about his vision for strengthening India-Australia relations. “India is like my second home. My association with the country began in 1986, when I first toured there. Over the years, I have made friends, written a book on India, and travelled across the country trying to understand why cricket is almost like a religion there," he told News18.

Despite his stature as one of cricket’s greatest, Waugh was warm and approachable as he welcomed the Indian delegation. “The relationship between our two countries is strong, but there is so much more we can do together. If I am on the Board, I want to make a difference — not just lend my name. Over the years I have been involved in business, in charity, and I want to bring that same energy here," he added.

Waugh, who is expected to visit India in October, made it clear that his focus goes beyond cricket. He recalled his longstanding support for Udaan Home in Kolkata, where he has helped underprivileged children. “I have always believed in standing by people. That’s what keeps me connected to India," he said.

As the conversation drifted back to cricket, Waugh fondly remembered the greats of Indian cricket — Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Rahul Dravid, and Sachin Tendulkar — with a chuckle about how much the Australians “disliked" facing Harbhajan Singh, who so often dismissed them. “Cricket builds emotions and connections. That’s how relationships between nations are also built," he said.

On a more serious note, Waugh expressed his disappointment over the recurring controversies that prevent India-Pakistan cricket matches from taking place. “Sport should unite, not divide," he remarked.

Our interaction concluded with a 15-minute stroll from the Centre’s office to Sydney’s vibrant Little India.

Here, the spirit of the subcontinent comes alive. Streets brim with the aroma of dosas and biryanis, the sound of Bollywood music, and storefronts bursting with colourful saris, bangles, and idols. With the festival season approaching, intricately crafted Lord Ganesh idols dominate the displays — reminders of faith and tradition in a faraway land.

It was clear that Waugh’s journey with India has come full circle. From lifting the World Cup trophy to lifting the spirits of children in Kolkata, from writing about cricket to shaping policy on bilateral ties, the Australian legend now wants to bat for something bigger — the relationship between India and Australia. And if his words are any indication, Steve Waugh is determined to score big on this new pitch. Not only this, just after the programme, Waugh mailed delegates writing that he will be in India on October 9 for business development and he is looking forward to meeting everyone.

Australian leaders believe that a man of his stature with such humbleness will enhance the relationship between India and Australia more.

Sydney, Australia

News world Steve Waugh: Strengthening The Australia-India Connect Beyond Cricket

Read More