Australian Pacer Voices Displeasure Over Ashes Venue Selection
Australian cricket star Mitchell Starc has openly criticized Cricket Australia's decision to stage the first Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series at Perth Stadium instead of the traditional Brisbane opener. The 35-year-old fast bowling spearhead expressed that players' preferences were overlooked in the scheduling decision, highlighting a disconnect between administrators and the team.
Nostalgia for WACA and Fremantle Doctor
Starc revealed his fondness for the old WACA ground, where bowlers traditionally benefited from the Fremantle Doctor breeze that consistently blew across the field. He contrasted this with the current Perth Stadium conditions, noting that "the wind here is swirly and doesn't come from one consistent direction." The left-arm pacer emphasized that bowlers could experience three different wind directions within a single over at the new venue.
The experienced campaigner also pointed out the inconsistency in pitch preparation at Perth Stadium, mentioning that five different types of wickets have been used since the ground's establishment. He recalled varying conditions from slow, flat pitches against West Indies to surfaces that cracked up and resembled the old WACA characteristics.
Curator Defends Perth's First Test Status
Perth Stadium curator Isaac McDonald addressed the venue selection, noting that hosting the first Test match of the summer has become routine in recent years. "We've actually opened the last four summers here," McDonald stated, adding that the direct flight connection from the UK to Perth makes logistical sense for Ashes cricket.
McDonald acknowledged the special atmosphere surrounding an Ashes opener, describing the current buzz around town as "a whole new level" compared to previous seasons. He observed significant numbers of UK travelers who have specifically come to witness the historic match.
This scheduling marks a significant departure from tradition, as this will be the first Ashes series since 1982-83 that doesn't begin at Brisbane's Gabba ground. The iconic Brisbane venue will instead host the second Test, scheduled as a Day-Night affair from December 4-8, 2025.
