Gracing the Delhi Premier League these days, Grace Hayden — daughter of legendary Australian opener Matthew Hayden — is having a ball in the national capital. And it’s not just because of her love for Indian culture and cricket; she is genuinely soaking in the warmth and hospitality the country is known for.
Here as part of the tournament’s broadcast team, Grace is anchoring several shows for the official broadcaster, bringing her own charm and energy to the DPL coverage. It’s a role she’s clearly relishing, both on and off the field. “I am loving every bit of it,” Grace told CricBlogger in a recent chat at the Ferozeshah Kotla.
Like father, like daughter — Grace was an athlete through and through, and a highly skilled javelin thrower before cricket eventually took over.
After all, sporting talent runs in her blood. After all, she grew up surrounded by competition, discipline, and the drive to excel.
“I also used to play cricket as well,” she said with a booming smile, recalling her sporting shift. “But I guess I’m enjoying what I’m doing right now.”
From the track to the pitch, Grace carries the same competitive fire — a trait that seems to be the Hayden family’s trademark. “Dad is a real all-rounder,” she said with pride. “He’s the most chilled person I have seen in my life. He loves his cooking, fishing, travelling around the world, and he’s always taught us to follow our dreams.”
It’s that mix of calmness off the field and fierce competitiveness on it that Grace has inherited — qualities that now shape her own sporting journey. There are many who step into the world of sports anchoring, but Grace stands out as one of those naturally chirpy, energetic personalities who thrives on challenges. Independent and driven, she doesn’t rely on anyone’s help to climb the ladder — she builds her own path.
Grace’s work has already taken her to some of cricket’s biggest stages, anchoring sideline shows during marquee events like the IPL, as well as other high-profile tournaments. Whether it’s engaging with fans, interviewing players, or bringing behind-the-scenes stories to life, she does it pretty well!
Lovely piece
Daughter has the same inclination like father, i remember one Symonds and Hayden got drowned in a boat and came back swimming from the iocean
Really interesting information given