With the ongoing Big Bash League taking off with the ongoing COVID-19, Cricket Australia (CA) may consider hosting the rest of the tournament in Melbourne. A media report claimed that discussions are at an early stage as Melbourne has several cricket grounds to cater to the rest of the league.
“Transferring all eight Big Bash League clubs to Melbourne is one scenario Cricket Australia is considering in a bid to complete the season. Even though the number of COVID-19 in Victoria is increasing day by day, the use of the MCG, Marvel Stadium, St Kilda Cricket Ground and GMHBA Stadium to turbocharge the last part of BBL11 are attractions,” Fox Cricket reports .
One of the main reasons that points in favor of Melbourne is that both Adelaide and Brisbane do not have that many grounds. Sydney, the host city of the fourth Ashes Test, is seen as at high risk due to the huge spike in cases and Hobart’s Blundstone Arena is set to host the fifth Ashes Test, which is a day-night affair.
“The risk of more players becoming infected in Melbourne can be offset by greater stability flexibility. With all teams in the same jurisdiction, the schedule can be changed to cover the remaining 33 matches, including the final. The report further stated that a stumbling block would be contracts with the Gabba, Adelaide Oval, SCG, and Sydney Showgrounds – with tickets for the January Games already sold out – although Cricket Australia could argue that the Victorian solution was the only solution. is the only way forward.
So far, eleven players from Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder teams have tested positive for COVID-19 after being sent into isolation due to a positive rapid flow test with a player from another BBL club undergoing RTPCR test Awaiting result. The report also said that if matches are shifted entirely to Melbourne, Cricket Australia will impose strict restrictions to minimize movement and contact with the general public.
Just before the start of BBL matches on Saturday, former Australia cricketer Michael Hussey said on Fox Cricket that it would be ‘common sense’ to move matches to Melbourne.
“I think common sense would suggest bringing the entire competition to one city and I think it’s Melbourne. There are really four good grounds here in Melbourne… That way it gives you flexibility with the schedule. This Like, if there’s a team that has some cases and has to sit out, you can cut the schedule and change it.”
Brisbane Heat captain Jimmy Pearson felt that moving to Melbourne would be a good way to complete the season. “I think it’s inevitable that something like this could happen. Some form of hub or bubble similar to last year where we can maintain a relative amount of security and make sure cricket gets played. It’s one of those things.” There is one for which we need to be prepared for players. I think it is important that everyone gets out there and plays for the community and us as cricketers. Fingers crossed, we proceed as normal But we’ll see what happens.”
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