Published: May 31, 2016, 09:11 AM (IST)
Edited: May 31, 2016, 09:11 AM (IST)
Brisbane’s Gabba ground will host Test cricket for at least another three years, it was announced Tuesday, in daunting news for teams visiting Australia. Cricket Australia (CA) said a deal had been reached to play a Test annually at the venue until the end of the 2018-19 season, as well as a one-day or Twenty20 international each season for the next three years. Australia has a formidable record at the Gabba, nicknamed the ‘Gabbatoir’ and known for its heat, fast wicket and unforgiving, partisan crowd. The hosts have not lost a Test at the venue, in Brisbane’s Woolloongabba district, since going down to Viv Richards’ great West Indies side in 1988. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia announces ‘Twilight ticket’ prices for day-night Test at Brisbane
“Australia’s record at the Gabba has been exceptional and the fact we remain undefeated at the Gabba since 1988 underlines that record,” said CA general manager Pat Howard. “As a consequence the Australian players always look forward to a Gabba Test.” The ground will this year host its first day-night Test with a pink ball, against Pakistan in December, with a bumper crowd expected. CA has revealed pricing for special ‘Twilight Tickets’ for the Commonwealth Bank day-night Test at the Gabba here, with adult tickets starting from AUD 20, kids tickets from 10, and family tickets from 45. The ‘Twilight Ticket’, first introduced at the Commonwealth Bank day-night Test in Adelaide last season, gives fans access to the Gabba for the last two sessions of play for days one to four of the first Commonwealth Bank Test from December 15-19. ALSO READ: James Sutherland emphasises on higher pay for cricketers playing Test
This additional ticket option has been introduced to ensure as many fans as possible are able to attend the match and be a part of this unforgettable experience. The ‘Twilight Ticket’ proved to be popular in Adelaide last year, representing 14 per cent of the tickets sold across the three days of the inaugural day-night Test.
