FOLLOWING Port Adelaide's foray into China, Essendon and Adelaide are looking to play a pre-season match in India.

Essendon chief executive Xavier Campbell said the joint initiative with the Crows was an opportunity to increase participation and engagement with the Indian community and grow the game in a country with a population of 1.3 billion.

Australia has around 400,000 people living in the country with Indian backgrounds.

"It's a different way to look at growing the game and we believe in working closely with Adelaide and the AFL [so] we can best position ourselves to make a significant impact," Campbell told Newscorp.

"We have seen positive growth in the Indian community participating in our Auskick and community programs, attending our games and signing up as members.

"We believe the time is right to increase the scope and intensity of our commitment.

"Although our discussions with Adelaide have not been built on the prospect of playing home and away football abroad, there is the opportunity to consider an exhibition or pre-season game in India."

To help launch the venture, the Bombers will host the Crows in an India-themed round 21 encounter, that will feature Hindi and Punjabi commentary teams.