Josh Kennedy’s journey from AFL legend to kabaddi enthusiast may seem unlikely, but the former Sydney Swans and Hawthorn star is proving that sportsmanship knows no boundaries. Swapping the oval for the kabaddi court, Kennedy recently immersed himself in India’s Pro Kabaddi League, training alongside some of the sport’s most celebrated athletes.
Kennedy’s time in New Delhi was a study in contrasts and connections. On the kabaddi court, he engaged with the high-intensity game that is equal parts strategy and sheer physicality. Guided by Pro Kabaddi League stalwarts like Sachin Tanwar of the Tamil Thalaivas and Jaipur Pink Panthers skipper Arjun Deshwal, Kennedy didn’t just watch—he got stuck in. The jersey exchanges between Kennedy, Tanwar, and Deshwal symbolised more than a gesture of goodwill; they were a nod to the growing bond between Australian and Indian sports communities.
Reflecting on his experience, Kennedy described kabaddi as “fast, intense, and deeply rooted in Indian culture.” For someone accustomed to the robust, flowing movements of Australian Rules Football, adapting to the compact, close-contact dynamics of kabaddi required both mental and physical recalibration. Yet Kennedy’s enthusiasm never wavered. With each training session, he gained deeper insight into the sport and its storied traditions. “The power of sports to bridge cultures is undeniable,” Kennedy remarked, highlighting his excitement to bring this newfound passion to Melbourne for the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League Melbourne Raid.
Scheduled for 28 December at John Cain Arena, the Pro Kabaddi League Melbourne Raid marks the sport’s first foray into the Australian sporting landscape. This event promises to attract not just the Indian diaspora but a diverse crowd eager to witness a unique sporting spectacle. Kennedy will captain an All-Star kabaddi team in what is shaping up to be a thrilling introduction to the sport for Australian audiences.
The Victorian Government, through Visit Victoria, is backing the event as part of its ongoing efforts to position Melbourne as a global hub for major events. Brendan McClements, CEO of Visit Victoria, framed the initiative as a celebration of cultural exchange. “With shared passion and love for sport, the introduction of India’s exceptional sporting league in Melbourne is anticipated to be a cultural breakthrough for our largest growing diaspora,” McClements said. The Pro Kabaddi League’s arrival in Melbourne aligns with the city’s reputation as a sporting capital, alongside iconic events like the Boxing Day Test, the Australian Open, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos highlighted the economic and cultural impact of hosting such events. “The Pro Kabaddi League has one of the fastest-growing fan bases around the globe,” Dimopoulos noted. “We know people will flock to see this one-of-a-kind event—another major event keeping our state buzzing and boosting our local businesses and jobs.”
For Kennedy, the Melbourne Raid isn’t just about showcasing kabaddi; it’s about creating a platform for Australians to connect with the rich heritage of a sport beloved by millions in India. The simplicity of kabaddi’s rules—tagging opponents and avoiding being tackled—belies the complexity of its strategies and the lightning-fast reflexes required to excel. The game’s raw energy has made it a phenomenon in India, and Kennedy believes it has the potential to captivate Australian audiences as well.
The All-Star match will bring together a mix of Pro Kabaddi League players and local Australian talent, blending international flair with homegrown enthusiasm. Kennedy’s leadership on the kabaddi court reflects his commitment to fostering cross-cultural sporting relationships, a theme that resonates throughout the event. The Melbourne Raid represents a chance to introduce kabaddi as more than a sport—it’s an opportunity to celebrate the intersections of culture, athleticism, and community.
As the countdown to 28 December begins, tickets for the Pro Kabaddi League Melbourne Raid are now available, promising fans a rare opportunity to witness the fusion of Indian tradition and Australian sporting spirit. For Kennedy, it’s the culmination of an extraordinary journey—one that began with curiosity and is set to inspire audiences on both sides of the globe.
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🏉AFL legend Josh Kennedy embraces #kabaddi, captaining an All-Star team at Melbourne Raid on 28 December.🤼♂️ Celebrate this cultural fusion of Indian tradition & Aussie sportsmanship!🌏 Ready to experience kabaddi’s thrill? 🎟️ #TheIndianSun @Steve_Dimohttps://t.co/KAuOOryd9I
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