Darwin to host two T20s between Australia and South Africa
For the first time in 17 years international cricket will return to the Northern Territory with dates locked in for Australia to host a major nation in two matches. Find out when.
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Darwin will host international cricket for the first time in 17 years with two T20 matches to be played at TIO Stadium in August.
Australia will face South Africa, both nations competing in this year’s WTC final, in what will also be the first T20 internationals played in the Top End.
The two matches will be played on August 10 and 12 to officially open the Summer of Cricket and are already expected to be sell outs.
NT Cricket chief executive Gavin Dovey said bringing international cricket back to Darwin after 17 years is a “huge moment for the game in the Northern Territory”.
“Hosting Australia and South Africa for two T20 Internationals is not only a fantastic opportunity for local fans to witness world-class cricket, but also a chance to inspire the next generation of Territory cricketers,” he said.
Australian cricketer Cooper Connolly played in the Top End Strike League in 2023 ahead of making his way into the international side and said it was an experience he loved.
“It’s exciting to see international cricket come back here, every city deserves a place for cricket so it’s super exciting to have it back in Darwin,” he said.
“I spent six weeks up here last time and loved my time, there’s lot of things to do up here like Mindil Beach or seeing the crocs which we really enjoyed.
“Having played here before it’s a great experience, there’s always people coming down to watch no matter who’s playing. For Darwin there’s just excitement to have cricket to watch and be a part of.
“I’m looking forward to what the next couple of months have to bring to Darwin and I’m sure it will be a great time.”
Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg said he looked forward to bringing international cricket to every state and territory capital.
“We look forward to bringing international cricket to fans across the country, including Darwin, with 11 cities and 14 venues hosting matches throughout the season,” he said.
The last international played at TIO Stadium was a One Day International against Bangladesh in 2008.
TIO Stadium also played host to two test matches with Australia playing Bangladesh in 2003 and Sri Lanka the following year, the hosts winning both.
However, the venue was unable to host games in the years since until a drop-in pitch was installed in 2023.
Pre-sale tickets for registered fans begins on June 3 and general public tickets from June 13.
Minister for Major Events Marie-Clare Boothby said the matches would deliver a significant boost to the local economy and tourism sector, drawing fans from across the country.
“The return of international cricket to the Top End is a proud moment for the Territory, and we can’t wait to welcome Australia and South Africa to Darwin,” she said.
“Territorians love their sport, and events like this increase our reputation as a key player on the global sporting map, along with open doors for local businesses and promote the Territory as a top destination for sport.
“This year, TIO Stadium will host NRL, AFL and now cricket, further showcasing the Territory’s capability to deliver major sporting events.”
Minister for People, Sport and Culture Jinson Charls said the return of international cricket reinforced the NT’s growing reputation as a premier sporting destination.
“This is not only exciting news for sport fans and dry season tourists, but it also presents the opportunity for aspiring young Territory cricketers to witness and meet their heroes, right in their own backyard,” Mr Charls said.
Both matches can be watched live on Foxtel and Kayo Sports.
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