URGENT UPDATE: Optus Stadium’s CEO, Mike McKenna, has expressed frustration at Cricket Australia and England for failing to capitalize on a rare opportunity following the unprecedented two-day finish of the first Ashes Test in Perth. With the match concluding in record time, fans are left disappointed and the stadium faces a staggering loss of $4 million in ticket refunds and hospitality revenue.
The first Test will be remembered as one of the shortest in history, with only 500 general admission tickets sold for the third day, prompting the stadium to donate surplus food to OzHarvest. McKenna stated that both teams should have quickly organized a One-Day International in the time available, echoing a similar historic event in 1971 when England and Australia played a one-day match after weather disruptions.
“Why wasn’t there an opportunity to fill the space with another form of cricket?” McKenna questioned, emphasizing the disappointment felt by fans who traveled long distances and booked accommodations, often spending over a week in Perth. Many had anticipated seeing live cricket, rather than just visiting tourist sites.
McKenna lamented the lost chance to engage families and kids on a Sunday, stating, “They missed an opportunity, and it may not come again for four years.” The presence of the enthusiastic Barmy Army fans in Perth underscores the significant interest in the series, highlighting the potential to grow cricket’s fanbase in Western Australia.
Despite the rapid conclusion of the Test, Cricket Australia acknowledged the high levels of interest and viewership. A spokesperson confirmed that the final session attracted an average audience of 2.3 million viewers, showcasing the dramatic impact of players like Travis Head and Mitch Starc on the series.
However, McKenna criticized the modern landscape of player contracts, suggesting that these complexities would hinder the organization of a last-minute match in today’s cricket environment. He highlighted the need to prioritize fan engagement over contractual obligations, stating, “What’s more important to cricket? Engaging fans or looking after player contracts?”
This situation has sparked discussion among cricket fans and officials alike, with many questioning why such a golden opportunity was overlooked. As the summer of cricket unfolds, all eyes will be on how this unprecedented situation will impact the remaining matches and fan engagement.
As the cricket community reflects on this moment, the question remains: Will Cricket Australia adapt to better serve the fans in the future? The urgency to address these concerns is palpable, and fans are eager for answers.
