Western Australia’s severe Covid-19 rules are likely to mean that the fifth Ashes Test is to be moved from the Optus Stadium, Perth.
The Test match – scheduled to take place from 14th January, is in doubt due to a mandatory 14-day isolation for all domestic and international travellers to Western Australia.
The draconian Western Australian rules have placed the Test match into doubt for numerous months. However, they were dealt a serious blow when Western Australian premier Mark McGowen said:
“The thing about the Ashes and Cricket Australia is we have put in place very strict rules.
“We’ve said to them they need to have 14 days of quarantine, and that has to apply to all of the broadcast staff, all the cricket staff.
“They can’t just bring wives and girlfriends with them, [there are] the same rules as we put in place for the AFL (Australian Football League).
“It is up to them whether they want to adhere to those rules or not.”
Melbourne is seen to be the preferred option for the final Test. Sydney is said to be also be interested, with the 4th Test match takes place at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 4-9. Canberra and Hobart are further interested in hosting the final Test.
It’s utterly ridiculous for cricketers, staff and the media to have to double isolate in Australia. The refusal of the Western Australian government to budge will almost certainly result the removal of its Ashes Test.
No official confirmation of the Test match being taken away has occurred, although a Cricket Australia announcement is likely when plans have been finalised.
Relaxation of Australian federal coronavirus rules has been halted due to the Omricon variant of the virus. Vaccinated skilled workers and students were initially allowed to enter the country from December 1st.
This winter’s Ashes have been plagued with discontent from the players. Bio-bubbles have been seen to be of a huge detriment to player welfare.
However, after undergoing a mandatory 14 day isolation period in the Gold Coast- England players have had a freedom to travel around the city of Brisbane prior to the first Test – something that has not been afforded to them since before the coronavirus pandemic began.
The first Ashes Test begins at 00:00 (GMT) Wednesday 8th December at the Gabba, Brisbane. The series is being broadcasted on BT Sport and will be well covered by The Cricket Paper.
