History

The History of Indoor Cricket in Australia

Australia is the birthplace of modern Indoor Cricket. What began as informal net sessions for outdoor cricketers during winter months evolved into one of the country’s most popular participation sports.

Early Origins — 1970s

Indoor Cricket emerged in Australia during the early 1970s as an off-season training format. Players adapted to modified spaces — often using existing indoor venues — to stay sharp during the winter months when outdoor cricket was not possible.

The Sport Takes Shape — 1980s

The 1980s saw the construction of purpose-built Indoor Cricket centres across Australia. The sport rapidly grew in its own right, distinct from outdoor cricket, with its own rules, competitions, and community. By the late 1980s, hundreds of centres were operating nationally.

Going International — 1995

The first World Indoor Cricket Championships were held in 1995, with Australia sending national representative teams for the first time. Australia performed strongly in the inaugural championships, cementing the country’s reputation as the home of the sport.

A National Sport — 2000s

Through the 2000s, Indoor Cricket grew to become one of Australia’s most widely played participation sports. With hundreds of affiliated centres and tens of thousands of registered players, the sport had established itself as a permanent fixture in Australian sporting culture.

A New Era — 2026

Australian Indoor Cricket was established in 2026 as the new national governing body for the sport. With a fresh identity, renewed leadership, and a clear strategic direction, AIC is committed to growing the sport and delivering a high-quality experience for players, centres, and partners across the country.