Sydney to host third Test between Australia and India as planned

There had been concerns that Sydney wouldn’t be able to host the match after a spike in Covid-19 infections across the region

Cricket Australia have announced that the New Year’s Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground as scheduled.

There had been concerns that Sydney wouldn’t be able to host the match after a spike in Covid-19 infections across the region. The decision comes after several meetings that considered the impact of the outbreak.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground had been placed on standby in case it wasn’t tenable to play the match in New South Wales.

Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia’s interim chief executive, said that health advice from the New South Wales government and collaboration with both the New South Wales and Queensland governments had informed the decision.

“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," said Hockley. "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.

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

ODI Team of the Year: Who makes the cut in our 2020 XI?

Glenn McGrath, president and co-founder of the McGrath Foundation added: “We are thrilled the Vodafone Pink Test will still take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground. It is the home of the Pink Test and the spirit and support of the crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground have become a huge part of the Pink Test atmosphere over the past 12 years.

“In the coming days, we will be announcing our new exciting digital initiative for this year’s Pink Test, which will mean people can get involved, no matter whether they are in the stadium or watching from home.

“The Vodafone Pink Test is one of our key fundraising events of the year, so we hope people across Australia will help keep the ‘pink’ in the Pink Test and show their support by visiting pinktest.com.au to find out how they can get involved.”

Gift a subscription to The Cricketer this Christmas and choose your free gift (a £20 John Lewis gift card or copy of Bob Willis: A Cricketer & A Gentleman). Subscribe here