Australia vs. West Indies test: Cricket Australia backflip and acknowledge Australia Day at Gabba Test

After widespread criticism, Cricket Australia has acknowledged Australia Day at the Gabba, as protesters triggered a security alert over of a protest against the national day.

Cricket Australia ended up mentioning Australia Day after all while focusing much of its pre-play welcome on Indigenous culture.

That came after fans were briefly banned from entering the Gabba on day two of the second Test because of a protest against the national day.

After days of toing and froing from CA including a backflip from chief executive Nick Hockley, a ground announcer welcomed fans to the Gabba by referring to “Australia Day” but stressed the importance of recognising that the day meant different things to different people and in particular that the day was one of mourning for some First Nations people.

The announcement was accompanied by a local Didgeridoo player.

Earlier the extreme emotions surrounding the day were laid bare when three rowdy spectators, including a shirtless man, shouting “we are on stolen land … always has been and always will be’’ triggered a security alert.

A pitch invader with an Australian Aboriginal flag is seen on the field during day two of the second cricket Test match between Australia and West Indies at the Gabba. Picture: AFP

The spectators were identified by security but Cricket Australia took the precaution of temporarily banning fans from entering the ground.

Several people protesting outside were also being watched closely by police and it is believed at least one was arrested.

Broadcasters Fox and Channel 7 were told they could not broadcast from the field of play.

All media were removed from the playing surface – and even beyond the boundary rope – 70 minutes from the start of play but returned soon after.

It was expected play would start on time.

Australian players arrived at the ground an hour early to avoid the protest and some Cricket Australia employees did not wear team kit.

Hockley has said in a 2GB interview on Monday that the phrase “Australia Day” would not be explicitly referenced but by Friday it was clear CA had changed its tune.

“Cricket fans, welcome to the Gabba this Australia Day public holiday,” the announcer said.

“We are all fortunate to live in Australia, we have a lot to be thankful for and a lot to celebrate.

“Cricket Australia acknowledges the Yuggera and Turrbal people as the traditional owners and custodians of this land and pays respect to elders past and present.

“In keeping with our commitment to reconciliation, we encourage all Australians to take a moment today to recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been here for 60,000 years and today, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures remain the oldest continuing cultures on the planet.

Protesters are seen outside the Gabba alongside a strong police presence. Picture: AFP.

“We encourage all Australians to respect that communities across our richly diverse nation hold different views about what Australia Day and 26 January means to them.  

“We acknowledge that today will evoke different emotions among our communities, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and for some the day is regarded as a day of mourning.

“We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ ongoing quest to close the gaps in life outcomes and value the ongoing contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories and cultures to our great nation.

“Cricket is a sport for all and we welcome all fans and participants, regardless of their identity, background, beliefs or choices. We provide a safe space for the whole community to connect, and feel respected, and we thank you for playing your role. Enjoy the cricket.”

Australia Day was also referenced directly in the welcome at an official Cricket Australia function before play.

Speaking on SEN before play on day two, Hockley said that CA had “received criticism” but also support for its stance on Australia Day, highlighting that CA wanted cricket to be a sport for all.

Originally published as Australia vs. West Indies test: Cricket Australia backflip and acknowledge Australia Day at Gabba Test