Indians Engulf In Christmas Festivities In Brisbane Ahead Of Much-Awaited Gabba Test

These are good times for Indian diaspora in Brisbane. They have the Christmas to look forward to, and before that, there is the Gabba Test in which the Marathis, Gujaratis, Punjabis and Tamils will root for their favourite team in unison. Bright red decor, concerts, food festivals, Santa run and lights -- the festive vibe has already filled the air in Brisbane. Every Indian household here fondly remembers the historic win of 2021 in what was until then known as the Australian cricket team's fortress.

The 'theplas', 'bhakarwadi', 'mathris' and 'laddus' are being prepared to enjoy the match with Indian flavours.

Indian jerseys are out of the trunks, tricolours and posters of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant are in huge demand.

"We are going to watch the match at the Gabba with all our Indian friends and for the first time, I am also taking my parents, who have come from Karad in Maharashtra," said Sachin Pawar, an IT professional who has been based in Brisbane for the past 12 years.

"The Indian team comes here every three-four years and that is the only time we go to the stadium to watch the match. It's nothing less than a festival for us," he added.

"My aai (mother) has especially made laddu, chakli and bhakarwadi for us. Some Gujarati friends bring thepla, Punjabi friends carry mathri, so it is like a feast." The loss in Adelaide could not dampen their spirits and they are confident that history will be repeated at Gabba when world cricket heavyweights India and Australia renew their rivalry in the third Test from Saturday.

The memories of 2021 are still fresh in their minds. Chasing a stiff target 328 runs on the final day, the Indian team, led by Ajinkya Rahane, handed Australia their first defeat at this