AFL Makes History With First Hindi Commentary

Hindi AFL commentators Harbir Singh Kang (L) and Rajbir Ghuman. Photo: Supplied

Get ready, footy fans! The AFL is kicking goals for inclusion by bringing Hindi and Mandarin commentary to the broadcast booth for the first time ever.

This August, two blockbuster matches were called in the native tongues of some of Australia’s largest multicultural communities — meaning more fans than ever were able to feel the thrill of every goal, crunching tackle and heart-stopping mark, all in their own language.

It’s a landmark moment for Aussie Rules.

Hindi Steps into the Spotlight At AFL

AFL commentators (L–R): Barney Yu Xia, Agnes Yao Lu (Mandarin), Harbir Singh Kang, and Rajbir Ghuman (Hindi). Photo: Supplied

The action kicked off in Round 21 on Thursday, August 1, when the Western Bulldogs faced off against the GWS Giants.

For the first time, fans were able to tune in to a dedicated Hindi commentary feed, led by Rajbir Ghuman and Harbir Singh Kang — two seasoned broadcasters with a deep love for the game.

To complete the experience, the broadcast featured in-language graphics, team line-ups, and stats — all available live on Kayo Sports and Foxtel channel 507, as part of the regular subscription at no extra cost.

Mandarin Makes Its Mark

The excitement continued in Round 22 on Saturday, August 9, when the Brisbane Lions took on the Sydney Swans in a Grand Final rematch.

Mandarin-speaking footy fans were treated to live commentary from Agnes Yao Lu and Barney Yu Xia — passionate AFL followers.

This feed also featured Mandarin-language graphics and production elements, streaming live via Kayo Sports or Foxtel channel 505.

Not Just Translation

These were not just straight translations of the English commentary. Raj, Harbir, Agnes and Barney are all experienced AFL commentators through the National Ethnic & Multicultural Broadcasters Council (NEMBC) and understand how to localise the game for their audiences.

Michael Neill, General Manager of Fox Footy, says this is more than just a new broadcast option:

“We’re thrilled to bring Hindi and Mandarin commentary to life on Kayo Sports and Foxtel — and share our great game with a whole new audience. Raj, Harbir, Agnes and Barney bring unique energy and passion to the broadcasts, backed by dedicated production crews. We know these calls will strike a chord with their communities.”

The coverage is part of the AFL’s Cultural Heritage Series, which is dedicated to celebrating the diverse backgrounds of players, coaches, supporters, and volunteers. The series recognises that the AFL is not just Australia’s game — it belongs to every community that calls Australia home.

While this August marks the debut of Hindi and Mandarin mainstream commentary for men’s AFL, the league has confirmed plans to extend alternate-language coverage to AFLW matches later in the 2025 season.

Fans looking to access the Hindi and Mandarin commentary can tune in live via Kayo Sports or on Foxtel channels 507 and 505, respectively, during the specified matches—making it easier than ever to experience AFL in their preferred language without additional cost or apps.