Australia’s premier Indigenous cricket carnival, the Imparja Cup, has returned to Mparntwe (Alice Springs), bringing together First Nations cricketers, families and supporters for days of competition and cultural celebration.
The 33rd edition of the tournament spans multiple divisions and continues a tradition that began in 1994 as a family match between Alice Springs and Tennant Creek. Northern Territory Cricket describes the Imparja Cup as “Australia’s biggest Indigenous cricket festival”, noting it has grown into “Australia’s largest Indigenous cricket carnival” and helped lay foundations for broader national pathways.
This year’s event features 21 teams competing across key divisions, drawing players and communities from across the Northern Territory and beyond. Organisers say the Cup is about more than sport, functioning as an annual gathering that strengthens connection, pride and opportunity for Aboriginal communities through a shared love of cricket.
Northern Territory Cricket chief executive Gavin Dovey said the tournament’s reach depends on sustained community leadership and behind-the-scenes work. “The Imparja Cup takes a significant amount of work behind the scenes, and that work is driven by people who care deeply about advancing Indigenous cricket across the Territory,” he said. He also acknowledged the cultural direction of the founders and advisory group: “Thank you also to founders Shane Franey, Rossy Williams and the Indigenous Advisory Committee whose guidance ensures the event remains culturally strong and community-led.”
Dovey said the growth in team numbers reflects strong demand from communities. “To see our Men’s Community division grow in 2026 from five to seven teams and our Women’s division increase from four to six shows that Indigenous communities want to play cricket, and events like the Imparja Cup are critical to ensuring cricket remains a sport for all Australians” he said.
Beyond matches, the Cup includes community activities aimed at supporting young people and addressing practical needs in remote and regional contexts. The tournament has previously linked with technology and education initiatives, with partners supporting programs that aim to lift digital access and strengthen pathways for students.
For many families, the Cup is a reunion point as much as a sporting competition – a place where culture and community governance sit alongside the scoreboard and where young players can see role models and future opportunities in action.
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