To improve the matchday atmosphere and experience in the Big Bash League, the Melbourne Stars have announced a relationship with Team India’s official fan group, the Bharat Army, ahead of BBL 15. The agreement will result in the construction of a dedicated fan area at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), bringing together ardent cricket fans from various backgrounds under one roof.
The Big Bash League has long prided itself on fan interaction and entertainment, and this latest development fits that vision. The Bharat Army, which is well-known for its presence, chants, and support for Indian cricket, has established standards for structured fan culture in international venues. The Melbourne Stars hope to add more enthusiasm to their home games by working with the Bharat Army, as well as make the stadium experience more accessible and interactive for all.
As part of the agreement, Bay M8 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground has been recognised as the official “Stars Army” supporter bay. To participate in the experience, fans can simply select tickets in Bay M8 on the Ticketek website for all Melbourne Stars matches at the famous facility. Notably, the bay is accessible to anyone, regardless of background.
Joining forces 🤝
We’re excited to welcome @thebharatarmy to the MCG for BBL|15 to create a new fan bay open to all, the Stars Army 🌟
🎟️: https://t.co/wNT2nuS4eU pic.twitter.com/T28hsfv9j2
— Melbourne Stars (@StarsBBL) December 13, 2025
The Bharat Army have set the benchmark globally: Melbourne Stars general manager
Melbourne Stars General Manager Max Abbott welcomed the partnership, stating the Bharat Army’s legacy for uniting fans and creating memorable moments in the stands. While he revealed that the group’s support will always lie with Team India, Abbott expressed delight in welcoming them into the Stars family through a shared love of the game. He also noted that the energy and noise generated from Bay M8 could provide a significant boost to the Stars players on the field.
“The Bharat Army have set the benchmark globally for bringing fans together and creating incredible experiences in the stands. While their support of Team India will always come first, we are delighted to welcome them to the Melbourne Stars family through our shared love of cricket. Importantly, the Stars Army bay will be open to everyone, so fans of all backgrounds can come to the MCG for the Bharat Army experience, which is centred on a passion for the game. I’m sure the energy and noise coming from bay M8 at the MCG will provide a boost to our players on the field,” the Melbourne Stars General Manager said.
Bharat Army founder Rakesh Patel shared similar comments, calling the association with the Melbourne Stars truly special. Patel stressed that the Bharat Army represents a global community of fans connected by passion, friendship, and family.
“The Bharat Army represents a unique and innovative voice, united by an unrivalled passion for supporting cricket. As a global community of fans, friends and family, associating with the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League is something truly special for us. We have shared countless memories at the MCG supporting India, and to now come together with the Stars to celebrate fandom, passion, and the spirit of the game feels very natural. This collaboration reflects how cricket goes beyond teams and borders, and we’re excited to bring our energy, colour, and voice to the Stars this season,” Rakesh Patel said.
The enthusiasm will be further driven by Bharat Army Media Manager Daman Singh and fan representative Ajay Sindha, who will lead the group in full voice. Singh stated the continuation of the Bharat Army’s passion in Australia and promised an electric atmosphere with drums, dhols, and non-stop action. He also took the names of Stars stalwarts Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, urging fans to support the players with full intensity. The Stars Army will make its debut on opening night at the MCG when the Melbourne Stars face the Hobart Hurricanes on December 18.
India
