Late call to be made on Adelaide Strikers season opener because of bushfires
The Adelaide Strikers’ season opener against the Sydney Thunder in Canberra could be called off because of the raging bushfires on the east coast.
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Big Bash League officials will make a late call on whether the Adelaide Strikers match against the Sydney Thunder in Canberra will go ahead as raging bushfires on the east coast raise concerns about air quality.
The Strikers are set to begin their BBL09 campaign against the Thunder at Manuka Oval at 5.50pm.
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But the smoke from raging bushfires in NSW has prompted the Thunder to say it and the League may have to make a call on whether the match goes ahead if the air quality and visibility is compromised enough.
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“The safety of players, fans and staff remains our number one priority. In accordance with relevant guidelines, air quality will be regularly assessed throughout the day today,” the Thunder said in a statement.
“A discussion and assessment of air quality will be added to the pre-match medical briefing at Manuka Oval, which will take place at 5.10pm AEDT, 60 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.
“Match officials will conduct further assessments following the bat flip at 5.25pm and in the lead up to start time, in consultation with Club and League officials.”
The Thunder said in the event visibility and/or air quality is deemed unsuitable for play a decision regarding the match will be made in accordance with the League’s playing conditions.
NSW’s last Sheffield Shield match against Queensland was played amid a background of smoke blanketing the SCG, raising questions as to whether the game should have gone ahead.
Cricket NSW has said its associations should consider cancelling matches this weekend if there are any concerns about welfare because of the poor air quality and extreme heat in the area.
Sydney residents have breathed through 38 days of “very poor” air quality since the start of November, including 28 days considered to be “hazardous”.