Brisbane to host fans’ return to international cricket with women’s series

The upcoming limited-overs women’s series between Australia and New Zealand will be played entirely in a Brisbane hub, with COVID-19 border restrictions having forced a change to the original schedule.

Marking the return of fans to international cricket, all three T20Is and three ODIs will be played at Brisbane's Allan Border Field, while some of the previously announced dates for the series have been changed.

In line with Queensland Health and Government COVIDSafe requirements, the venue, which usually seats 2,500 fans, will be split into six zones and operate at 50% of its capacity. Fans are advised to stay 1.5 metres apart, wash their hands and use sanitiser regularly.

The series begins on 26th September and concludes on 7th October.

Fans have not attended international cricket in Australia since the final of the T20 World Cup at the Melbourne Cricket Ground back in March. The last international match held anywhere with fans was on 11th March.

Cricket Australia’s original schedule had the three T20 matches to be played at North Sydney Oval, while the ODIs were due to be held alongside the now-postponed series between Australia's men and the West Indies, with games in Townsville, Cairns and the Gold Coast.

The arrival of the New Zealand team on 9th September remains subject to clearance from Australian and New Zealand Government authorities.

Queensland Cricket Chief Executive, Terry Svenson welcomed the series being able to go ahead, advising “we're pleased to have played a role along with Cricket Australia and the State and Commonwealth Governments in bringing international sport back to Australia," he said in a statement.

The status of Australia's three scheduled ODIs against India in January, which were due to be played as World Cup preparation, remains unclear.

CommBank Women's T20 Series v New Zealand

First T20: 26th September, Allan Border Field
Second T20: 26th September, Allan Border Field
Third T20: 30th September, Allan Border Field

CommBank Women's ODI Series v New Zealand

First ODI: 3rd October, Allan Border Field
Second ODI: 5th October, Allan Border Field
Third ODI: 7th October, Allan Border Field