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Cricket fans across India were treated to a heartwarming spectacle as Grace Hayden, daughter of Australian legend Matthew Hayden, made her much-anticipated return as an IPL presenter-this time sharing the spotlight with the beloved mascot Champak. The 22-year-old broadcaster, who has rapidly risen to fame in the cricket media landscape, resumed her role with Star Sports for the second leg of IPL 2025, delighting viewers with her energy and on-screen chemistry.
Grace Hayden makes a new friend on her IPL return
Hayden’s return comes after a brief hiatus, during which she captured headlines with her travel escapades in Australia alongside Sara Tendulkar, daughter of Sachin Tendulkar. Now back in India, Grace wasted no time immersing herself in the vibrant IPL atmosphere, embracing local traditions, and engaging with fans both on and off the field.
In her first appearance since returning, Grace was seen playfully interacting with Champak, the IPL’s iconic mascot, during a pre-match segment at Wankhede Stadium. The duo’s lighthearted banter, dance routines, and impromptu games quickly went viral on social media, with fans lauding Grace’s ability to blend professionalism with genuine fun.
“Everything’s bigger, louder, and more vibrant in India. It’s truly special to be back,” Grace shared in a recent interview, reflecting on her unique journey from Queensland’s scenic roads to the heart of Indian cricket.
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Grace’s connection to India runs deep. Growing up, she often heard stories from her father about his cricketing adventures and love for Indian culture. “India feels like home,” she said, recalling how Matthew Hayden would bring back spices and cook Indian dishes for the family. Her affection for the country is evident not just in her work, but also in her willingness to embrace local customs-whether it’s trying street food, learning team chants, or donning traditional attire.
Fans have welcomed her return with enthusiasm, expressing excitement to see her collaborate with both cricketing legends and new-age icons. Her rapport with Champak, in particular, has added a fresh, youthful dimension to the IPL’s broadcast coverage, making matches more accessible and entertaining for younger audiences.
Grace Hayden’s journey as sports presenter
Grace’s journey from sports presenter at the 2023 Cricket World Cup to IPL anchor has been marked by versatility and charisma. She has previously worked as a fashion correspondent for major racing events in Australia and recently took up the role of lead presenter for Racing X, a digital sports platform. Her ability to connect with viewers, coupled with her candid on-screen presence, has drawn comparisons to her father’s celebrated commentary style.
As the IPL heads into its decisive phase, Grace Hayden’s return-punctuated by her playful camaraderie with Champak-has injected a dose of joy and relatability into the tournament’s coverage. With fans eagerly tuning in for more, Grace’s presence promises to keep the spirit of cricket alive, both on and off the field.
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