Melbourne, Cricket Australia on Monday confirmed that the fifth Ashes Test, which was scheduled to take place in Perth, will be relocated due to Covid-19 scare.
Canberra, Melbourne, and Sydney have also been seen as possible venues for the match between Australia and England. The decision is yet to be taken, where the potential series decider will be played.
Every possible effort was made to ensure that the final Test match of the series could be staged in Perth. Unfortunately, due to strict border restrictions and quarantine requirements, it was not possible to align the respective priorities of the Western Australia (WA) Government, Cricket Australia and WA Cricket.
In a statement issued by the CA, the Australian cricket board expressed disappointed for Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) Members and WA fans that have been looking forward to the fixture for some time. However, the CA remains committed to continue bringing elite cricket to WA.
Following the relocation of Ashes final Test, Cricket Australia CEO, Nick Hockley said, “We acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of the WA Government, relevant agencies and Perth Stadium over recent months.
“We are very disappointed that we are unable to stage the fifth men’s Ashes Test at Perth Stadium. We did everything we could in partnership with the WA Government and WA Cricket to make it work under the current border and health arrangements, but unfortunately this was not possible.
“We are particularly disappointed for Western Australian cricket fans who were so looking forward to seeing the first ever Ashes Test at the new stadium.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with the WA Government, Perth Stadium and WA Cricket to hold upcoming BBL matches and the ODI v New Zealand in Perth and thank them for their continued support," Hockley said.