First-class cricket is making a comeback in Darwin after nearly two decades, as Australia A is set to face Sri Lanka A in July. This series is part of Darwin’s effort to re-establish itself as a venue for high-level cricket, including hosting the opening two T20 internationals against South Africa in August.
The series will feature three 50-over matches and two four-day encounters. The initial four-day game against Sri Lanka A will take place at Marrara Stadium on a drop-in pitch, the same venue slated to host the South Africa T20 matches the following month. This venue will undergo keen scrutiny to assess its potential for hosting one of two Tests against Bangladesh in Northern Australia in August 2026. The original schedule was shifted from its March 2027 slot to accommodate the 150th anniversary Test between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The announcement of the Australia A squad is expected in the coming weeks. The team is likely to include relatively new players, given that those signed with county teams in England might not be available. Among the likely candidates for selection is Jason Sangha, following his outstanding role in South Australia’s Sheffield Shield victory.
Peter Roach, Cricket Australia’s head of cricket operations and scheduling, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming series. “It’s fantastic to confirm a multi-format series which gives the next crop of emerging cricketers excellent development opportunities throughout the Australian winter,” Roach stated. He highlighted Darwin’s unique climate, noting, “Darwin’s dry season weather between May and September offers both the Northern Territory and Australian Cricket an incredible winter opportunity which allows cricket to be played in Australia year-round.”
Darwin last hosted first-class cricket in 2006, with Australia A facing Pakistan A and India A playing New Zealand A. Following the series in Darwin, Australia A will embark on a tour of India in mid-September, featuring additional four-day matches.
Australia A vs Sri Lanka A, Darwin Schedule:
– July 4: First 50-over match | Marrara Cricket Ground (D/N)
– July 6: Second 50-over match | Marrara Cricket Ground
– July 9: Third 50-over match | Marrara Cricket Ground
– July 13-16: First four-day match | Marrara Stadium
– July 20-23: Second four-day match | Marrara Cricket Ground
