Cricketing bodies across the globe are planning to organise matches in empty stadiums to resume cricket amid the COVID-19 threat. England will play West Indies from July 8 in bio-secure environments. But former Australia cricketer Mark Taylor believes Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at MCG should have crowds in the stands.
Notably, the authorities might hesitate to invite crowds in the wake of growing number of positive cases in Victoria. Mark Taylor is of the opinion that Cricket Australia should also consider shifting the venues like the Optus stadium in Perth and Adelaide Oval.
The former Aussie skipper feels that situation is under control in those parts of Australia and the organising body should consider their decision. Victoria’s COVID-19 numbers have increased in the past few days, as the situation threatens to send parts of Melbourne into lockdown.
“Could it move? Obviously, because if you look at what is happening across Australia by Christmas time the MCG may only be able to host 10,000 or 20,000 people which will not look great for an iconic test like Australia and India,” Taylor told ‘Channel 9’.
“You move that to Optus stadium in Perth or even Adelaide Oval you will get full venues. Adelaide, in particular, loves seeing the Indians play. The India-Pakistan game in the World Cup sold out in 52 mins or something,” he added.
Last month, WACA chief Christina Matthews slammed Cricket Australia for choosing Brisbane over Perth for the high-profile series. Mark Taylor believes WACA will be keen to pounce on the opportunity which will also give the fans an opportunity to watch Virat Kohli & Co play.
“Those venues especially Perth will be trying hard to get that game as it would look better with full crowds,” Taylor added.
