Want to join the Indian cricket team fan frenzy in Melbourne? Here’s where to go

Find out where to watch the first ball of the India v Australia test series with thousands of Indian cricket fans in Melbourne as the action kicks off in Perth this afternoon.

The fight for the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy — the one big trophy missing from Australia’s cabinet after India’s recent dominance — starts with the first ball being shown live on Foxtel and Kayo from 1.20pm Friday.

Thousands of Indian supporters have flocked to Optus Stadium in Perth to watch the action live.

But while the action is happening thousands of kilometres away, Melbourne’s Indian cricket fans are turning parts of the city into their own ‘stadium’ hosting lively watch parties and drawing passionate crowds of supporters eager to cheer every run, wicket, and boundary.

Here’s where to catch the action live and soak up the excitement with Melbourne’s Indian cricket community:

*This list will be updated throughout the test series. Tell us where you will catch the cricket action in the comments below or email here.

Maharaja Restaurant — 560 High St, Preston

Preston’s Maharaja Restaurant has a fun-packed evening organised for the Indian cricket fans as they stream the test match on a big screen.

Fans can expect drinks, dinner and Bollywood music starting from 6.30pm.

Desi-licious The Garden Lounge — 269 Robinsons Rd, Ravenhall

Ravenhall’s Desi-licious, The Garden Lounge is offering Indian cricket fans a free shot for every six hit by the Indian team from 6.30pm.

There will also be a buffet serving Indian food with Bollywood music playing through the evening.

Transport Hotel — Federation Square, Melbourne

Fed Square’s Transport Hotel will be screening the live Australia vs. India test match throughout the day.