Cricket Australia confirmed that the annual Pink Test in Sydney will go as planned as COVID-19 situation had improved enough to host the game
Cricket Australia (CA) on Tuesday confirmed that the Sydney Cricket Ground will go ahead as the venue for the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia.
According to the CA officials, the COVID-19 situation in Sydney has eased up enough to allow the safe and secure hosting of the game.
A coronavirus outbreak in the New South Wales capital a couple of weeks ago had put the CA officials on high alert as they continued to monitor the situation as there was time for the third test and MCG was put on hold as a back-up for that match.
Another reason that the third Test venue was in a limbo was the closure of the Queensland border for anyone and everyone arriving from Sydney and made the situation difficult for every stakeholder involved.
Cricket Australia's interim CEO, Nick Hockley said that CA arrived at the decision after consultation with the NSW Government and in collaboration with both the Queensland and NSW Governments.
"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," 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.
"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.
"We are confident that both this match, and the fourth Test in Brisbane, will play out in a safe and successful manner and thus round out what has been a magnificent men's international program this summer.
"We are very grateful to the Queensland Government 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.
"In response to the public health situation in NSW and the requirements of the Queensland Government, CA will put in place appropriate biosecurity measures and we thank all players, staff and broadcasters for their cooperation to play the matches safely," Hockley further added.
The first Test of the New Year in Australia has become an annual event with the 'Pink Test' in memory of Glenn McGrath's wife Jane, who died of Breast Cancer. The games also serves as the fundraiser for the charity for McGrath Foundation in support of Breast Cancer awareness and education.
Now, in its 13th year, the foundation has collected $1.2 million in 12 years and McGrath was delighted with the news of SCG continuing as the host for the third Test.
In a statement, the former Australian fast-bowler said, "We are thrilled the Vodafone Pink Test will still take place at the SCG. It is the home of the Pink Test and the spirit and support of the crowd at the SCG have become a huge part of the Pink Test atmosphere over the past 12 years."
The third Test between India and Australia will start from January 7 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, with the series nicely poised at 1-1.
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