The Perth Stadium is gearing up for a thrilling summer of cricket, starting with the installation of a state-of-the-art drop-in pitch. This development comes as the stadium prepares to host its first international fixture of the season. After a four-year hiatus, Pakistan’s cricket team is set to tour Australia for a six-match white-ball series consisting of three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). The series kicks off on November 4 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), and Perth Stadium will host the third ODI on November 10.
Technological Feat: Drop-in Pitch Installation
In collaboration with HG Turf, the drop-in pitch was transported to the Perth Stadium using a specialised 30-meter-long, 40-tonne transporter, a unique piece of machinery available only in Western Australia. This technological achievement ensures the pitch is perfectly set for optimal playing conditions.
The stadium’s preparations are crucial as it will also host the pivotal West Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India from November 22-26. Additionally, the venue will serve as the home ground for the Perth Scorchers in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season, starting with the opening match against the Melbourne Stars on December 15.
Australia-Pakistan Squad Announcements
Australia has revealed its squad for the ODI series, with notable absences including Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh, both of whom will miss the series due to paternity leave. Their places have been filled by emerging players Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short. Experienced stars such as Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, and Glenn Maxwell will continue to feature in the squad.
On the other hand, Pakistan has yet to announce its team, though Mohammad Rizwan is expected to be named captain for the white-ball series. The Australia-Pakistan series promises to be an exciting prelude to the rest of the cricketing season, with fans eagerly awaiting these key matchups.
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