Coffs Harbour back on national sporting calendar

Coveted fixture to return to C.ex stadium after wildly successful first hit out

IN AN announcement sure to impress a sports-mad public, the Big Bash League is coming back to Coffs Harbour.

After a wildly successful hit out earlier in the year, the Sydney Sixers will return to C.ex Coffs International Stadium on January 4 to take on the Brisbane Heat.

The announcement is a big coup for Coffs Harbour, with Mayor Denise Knight expressing delight at the opportunity to replicate the "phenomenal success" of the previous T20 event in January.

"The official crowd of 9,834 was the most for a cricket match and the second biggest ever at the venue," she said.

Once again the quality and reputation of the Stadium, the facilities, staff and electric atmosphere - as well as the glorious Coffs Coast itself - has seen us included in the BBL10 schedule."

The Sydney Sixers go through their paces on Saturday at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

The Sixers made a big effort to get out and about in the community in the lead up to their game last year, meeting with young cricketers and visiting communities devastated by recent bushfires. 

The day before the young side demolished the Adelaide Strikers, players were in the fire ravaged town of Nymboida, which was still coming to terms with the loss of 100 homes nearly two months prior.  

Sydney Sixers General Manager Jodie Hawkins said the club were excited to be coming back to Coffs Harbour again this summer.

"The January match was one of the highlights of the season, we had a great time and the community was amazing" she said.

"Our players enjoyed the experience and can't wait to get back and we really look forward to seeing all the Sixers fans out in magenta again this BBL season."

CHCC Mayor Denise Knight holds up the Big Bash League trophy while flanked by Cricket NSW Northern NSW area manager, Martin Garoni.

Coffs Harbour City Council group leader for city prosperity Nikki Greenwood was excited by the announcement, despite challenges thrown up with the coronavirus pandemic.

"Obviously in these uncertain times, we'll be working closely with the Sydney Sixers, Cricket Australia and all stakeholders on numerous contingency plans," she said.

"We will be guided by the cricket hierarchy on any changes required to scheduling and crowd management.

"We are confident that we can work through any of the many possibilities that may eventuate as match draws closer, to provide a safe venue and excellent showpiece for this exciting event."  

Originally published as