Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hosts Team Australia and India

Players and families of the Australian and Indian men’s cricket teams attended the annual New Year’s Day Reception co-hosted by Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, and Jodie Haydon at Kirribilli House in Sydney last night.

The event was held before the fifth Test Match at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting on 3 January 2025, with Australia leading the series 2-1.

Also in attendance were representatives from the Australian Government, the High Commission of India, Cricket Australia, Cricket NSW, the Australian Cricketers’ Association and Venues NSW, and representatives from the McGrath Foundation.

Since 2009, Cricket Australia, the Sydney Cricket Ground, and the McGrath Foundation have collaborated to make the Pink Test one of the biggest charitable sporting events in the world. Thanks to the generosity of the cricket community, the Pink Test has helped raise more than $22 million.

Yesterday, the McGrath Foundation announced it will embark on a new innings, taking care of all cancers moving forward.

“Australians have seen some fantastic test cricket this summer.is part of the strong bonds between our two countries, so it’s great to host the Australian and Indian teams as they prepare for the series decider in Sydney. The Pink Test at the SCG is a really special event, not just for the cricket, but in highlighting the important work of the McGrath Foundation,” said Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

“Cricket has a long tradition of welcoming teams to our shores and uniting communities, and we thank the Prime Minister and Ms Haydon for hosting this special New Year’s reception at Kirribilli House. The Pink Test is a cherished event that embodies the best of Australian generosity and community spirit,” said Mike Baird, Cricket Australia chairperson.

“This year marks 17 years of our incredible partnership with the McGrath Foundation, and the ongoing public support for the Pink Test continues to inspire us. It’s particularly meaningful to see this iconic match contribute to McGrath’s new purpose of taking their care to all cancers,” he added.

“We also extend our gratitude to the Indian team for their support of this important cause. The passion and skill on display throughout the summer have been a celebration of world cricket at its finest, and we eagerly anticipate an exciting finale to this thrilling series at the SCG,” Baird concluded.

“The Pink Test is always an incredible event, but this year it’s extra special as we take our care to all cancers. This is the first Pink Test for everybody impacted by cancer and we’re so grateful for the support of Cricket Australia, both teams, the Australian Government and the Australian public as we work to ensure no one with cancer misses out on the care of a McGrath Cancer Care Nurse,” said Glenn McGrath, McGrath Foundation Co-Founder and President.