India, New Zealand Esports Federations Draft Historic MoU to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

India, New Zealand Esports Federations Draft Historic MoU to Strengthen Bilateral Ties
The Esports Federation of India (ESFI) and the New Zealand Esports Federation Incorporated (NZ Esports) have drafted a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in esports. The initiative took place in Auckland during celebrations marking 100 Years of Unity Through Sport between India and New Zealand.

The proposed agreement aims to establish a framework for knowledge exchange, shared learning and practical collaboration between the two federations and their respective esports communities. It is expected to create opportunities for players, promote cultural exchange and build a lasting partnership beyond competitive events.

The Indian delegation is visiting Auckland from October 23 to 26 at the invitation of NZ Esports and the New Zealand Government. The MoU proceedings were attended by New Zealand Esports General Secretary Ben Lenihan, CEO Jonathan Jansen and Sport NZ representative Brent Sheldrake.

Jansen highlighted the role esports can play in strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two countries, traditionally supported by cricket. He said bringing players together would create opportunities to compete, share cultures and build friendships among young people.

Sheldrake also emphasised the importance of international sporting events in fostering cultural understanding and connections through shared competition.

ESFI Honorary General Secretary Lokesh Suji said the proposed partnership would allow both federations to exchange expertise, create opportunities for players and develop sustained cooperation. He also thanked the New Zealand federation and government for inviting India to participate in the centenary celebrations.

The programme features several sporting disciplines, including cricket, football and esports. India's esports contingent is competing in eFootball and Clash Royale as part of the bilateral event against New Zealand.

Three Indian gamers are representing the country during the four-day visit. Shagun Srivastava is competing in women's Clash Royale, Dr Ibrahim Iyer in women's eFootball, and Chinmay Sahoo in the men's eFootball console category.

Srivastava and Sahoo secured their places through the Esports Federation of India's national qualifiers, NESC 2026. Iyer, a medical doctor, earned selection through a special match involving leading women's eFootball players.

The proposed MoU marks a step towards expanding India-New Zealand sporting ties into esports, with both federations seeking to encourage collaboration, player development and cultural exchange through gaming.