Sydney confirmed as venue for third India-Australia Test

Sydney Cricket Ground will play host to the third Test between India and Australia after days of speculation following a Covid-19 outbreak in New South Wales. Till yesterday, it was believed that MCG might earn the status of host for the New Year’s Test.

Several rounds of meetings had taken place inside the Cricket Australia boardroom, taking the impact of the recent outbreak of covid-19 in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, but finally, SCG has held on to one of the most anticipated games of the year.

“Despite the many challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, I am delighted to say Cricket Australia remains on track to deliver the men’s international series as scheduled,” Cricket Australia interim CEO Nick Hockley said.

“We have met regularly over the past week to assess the unfolding public health situation in Sydney and gauge its impact on border restrictions around the country. To date, we have been able to deliver a safe and successful summer thanks to our detailed biosecurity protocols and the amazing work of so many great people behind the scenes.”

Sydney to go Pink to raise money for McGrath foundation

The Test is also special considering it will be Jane McGrath Day and the venue will go pink to raise money for the McGrath Foundation which works towards cancer awareness. However, the former pacer will not be present on the occasion, first due to bio-bubble restrictions and secondly because he has been employed by Sony Sports India as an analyst in the Mumbai studio for the ongoing series.

“To that end, we have made the decision to keep the New Year’s Test at the SCG, which has a wonderful recent history of hosting the Pink Test and Jane McGrath Day on the third day of play.”

Brisbane will be the venue for the fourth Test as the Queensland government gave Cricket Australia the assurance to help them out with the proceedings. Should a lockdown and any border restrictions happen in either side of NSW or Queensland, CA will get a special exemption to allow players, match officials, broadcasters, media, and staff to move to Brisbane.

“We are very grateful to the New South Wales and Queensland Governments for their willingness to work with us to deliver the series as planned in a manner that places the safety and wellbeing of the players, officials, staff and the wider community as its top priority.”