The final Test of the series between Australia and India will take place at the Gabba in Brisbane after Covid-19 concerns were eased.
The Queensland government has reduced the crowd capacity for the fourth Test to 50% while making masks mandatory for any fans moving around the venue.
Brisbane’s Test will proceed as scheduled, after members of India’s touring party informed Cricket Australia they would fly there on Tuesday.
There were again no new local cases of the virus on Monday but the government has opted to put a cap of approximately 20,000 fans per day for the series finale.
‘The Gabba will be filled to half the capacity and masks are mandatory for entering, leaving and moving around the stadium,’ Palaszczuk said.
‘But if you are sitting there at your seat, you won’t have to wear your mask because you are outside. Most people will be coming by public transport anyway, where you will have to wear your mask.’
Cricket Australia interim CEO Nick Hockley said safety of fans, staff, players, officials and broadcasters remained the top priority.
‘We have been working closely with Queensland Health to ensure our strong biosecurity plans guarantees the fourth Test at the Gabba is played safely,’ Hockley said.
‘Throughout the season, we have developed a strong track record for a safe and responsible return to sport thanks to our well-established biosecurity protocols, the ongoing support from public health officials and the incredible hard work of so many people across Australian cricket.
‘I want to thank the Queensland government for their cooperation and willingness to working closely with CA and the BCCI so we can deliver the fourth Test as planned, but more importantly delivering on a plan that places the safety and well-being of the players, match officials and the wider community as a top priority.’
The status of the series finale had been uncertain for more than a week after media reports suggested some in India’s camp had pushed for it to be moved from the Queensland capital with fears over the strictness of hotel quarantine believed to be at the centre of their concerns.
CA has been insistent all along the Test will go ahead at the ground as planned, after receiving positive feedback from the powers that be BCCI. On Sunday night, they received the most important tick of approval.
CA said on Monday that India’s touring party confirmed with them they are happy to play in Brisbane and agree to the city’s quarantine protocols.
– Cricket Australia media
