South Africa’s withdrawal from the ODI Series in January has prompted Cricket Australia to announce a revised international schedule for the upcoming summer of cricket.
Manuka Oval was originally scheduled to host two women’s T20 matches between Australia and Pakistan on Friday, January 27 and Sunday, January 29.
However, the January 27 fixture has now been allocated to Blundstone Arena, which will be played on January 26, and ensures Hobart gets the chance to host an Australian team this summer.
Canberra has retained hosting rights for two men’s T20 internationals between Australia and England on Wednesday, October 12 and Friday, October 14, which are the last two matches of a three-game series.
Cricket ACT CEO Olivia Thornton said while Canberra handing over hosting rights for one women’s T20 international wasn’t ideal, such circumstances are unavoidable and the organisation is willing to ensure all jurisdictions gets a fair go in the schedule.
“We have a strong track record in finding middle ground if required, particularly when it supports the overall health and exposure of the game across the country,” Thornton said.
“That is evidenced by the hard work the organisation did to host plenty of BBL and WNCL matches when COVID forced the game into hubs.
“We are pleased that Tasmania will also host an international as we know how important it is for all Australians to have access to elite content.
“We are excited to still be hosting the Australian women’s team on January 29, the men’s T20 internationals on 12 and 14 October, a WBBL game between Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Renegades, with more elite content to be announced.”
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley said he was disappointed about South Africa’s withdrawal.
“It is disappointing Cricket South Africa will be unable to contest the ODI series in January.
“That said, we are delighted to be hosting South Africa for the three Test series, which includes the Boxing Day and New Year’s Tests.
“South Africa’s withdrawal will also create more opportunities for Australian international players to participate in the KFC Big Bash League.”
Tickets for the summer of cricket go on sale to the Australian Cricket Family on July 18, and to the general public on July 22.
International cricket schedule for Manuka Oval
Men’s Dettol T20I Series v England
Game two: October 12 (6.40pm)
Game three: October 14 (6.40pm)
Women’s Commonwealth Bank T20I Series v Pakistan
Game three: January 29 (1.45pm)
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