(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
MCG to Feature ‘House of Rauf’ Stand for Pakistani Fans in Upcoming BBL Season
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will once again host a special stand for Pakistani supporters during the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season, continuing a tradition that has added colour and vibrancy to the tournament.
This year, the stand has been officially named the “House of Rauf” in honour of fast bowler Haris Rauf, one of the Melbourne Stars’ most popular players. The initiative follows the success of last season’s “Pakistan Stand,” which received an overwhelming response from the local community.
Melbourne Stars general manager Max Abbott explained that the aim is to make Pakistani and South Asian cricket fans feel at home at the MCG.
“The ‘House of Rauf’ is about creating a space for our Pakistani fans to celebrate, enjoy the matches, and share their culture. With Haris Rauf as one of our key ambassadors, we’re thrilled to welcome their passion and energy again this season,” Abbott said.
Haris Rauf’s presence has been central to the Stars’ engagement with the Pakistani diaspora in Australia. Over the years, the support of Pakistani fans has transformed the atmosphere at Melbourne Stars’ home games, especially whenever South Asian players take the field.
The initiative also aligns with Cricket Australia’s Multicultural Action Plan, which highlights the importance of diversity and community involvement in shaping the country’s sporting culture.
For fans in Melbourne, the “House of Rauf” promises more than just a chance to cheer on their heroes. It will also be a celebration of identity, pride, and culture inside one of the world’s most iconic cricket stadiums.
The upcoming BBL season is expected to feature some of the biggest names from Pakistan, ensuring that the energy inside the MCG will be as electric as ever.
