Darwin is close to getting a Test match back on the calendar for the first time in 22 years. Cricket Australia (CA) is considering splitting the two-match Test series against Bangladesh next year with one game in the Northern Territory and the other in North Queensland. If it happens, it will be the first time since 2004 that Australia stages a Test in its winter months.
The recent crowds in Darwin during the white-ball games against South Africa have strengthened the case, showing that the fan support is strong and conditions are reliable.
The city has not hosted a Test since 2004 when Sri Lanka toured. The wait for the fans is likely to end soon. They are eager to witness international cricket and the atmosphere during the South Africa T20Is showed that clearly.
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Darwin and Other Queensland Venues in the Mix
Darwin’s Marrara Cricket Ground is now seen as the frontrunner to host a Bangladesh Test next year. The ground held up well during the recent internationals with good pitches and no interruptions due to weather. Crowds turned up in big numbers and that has given Cricket Australia confidence that a Test match could succeed there.
North Queensland is also in the conversation. Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena has been upgraded and is pushing for Test cricket. Australia recently played two ODIs versus South Africa here.
Cairns, which has hosted both ODIs and Tests in the past, remains a solid option too. Townsville is another venue in the mix but its lighting problems have held it back compared to the others.
Hosting a Test in Queensland would also tick a future requirement as Brisbane’s Gabba will miss out on a Test when New Zealand tours in the 2026-27 summer.
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Bangladesh Series Brought Forward
The Bangladesh Tests were originally lined up for 2027 but a shuffle in the schedule has opened the door earlier. The Ashes Test at the MCG in 2027, which will mark the 150th anniversary of men’s Test cricket, forced Cricket Australia to move things around.
With Afghanistan’s tour for next July suspended, the Bangladesh series was pushed forward.
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