Australian Camp Expresses Disappointment Over Venue Change
Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has openly admitted that players in the home squad are disappointed with the decision to move the opening Ashes Test from its traditional fortress, Brisbane's Gabba, to Perth Stadium. The Gabba, famously nicknamed 'the Gabbatoir' for its history of dismantling touring teams, has been a venue where England have managed only two victories in their last twenty attempts dating back to 1946.
When questioned about whether Australia could expect a similar home advantage at the new Perth venue, Starc responded candidly, "We'll find out in a week, won't we? They don't listen to the players, we would have liked to start in Brisbane, too." This sentiment highlights a clear rift between the players' preferences and the scheduling decisions made by cricket authorities.
Contrasting Views from the England Camp and the Curator
In a contrasting view, England's newcomer Gus Atkinson acknowledged the psychological benefit of avoiding Brisbane. "There are no scars for me," he stated, referencing his status as a first-time Ashes tourist, but added, "history would say it’s probably a good thing we’re not starting at the Gabba."
However, Isaac McDonald, the chief curator at Perth Stadium, has robustly defended the venue switch. He argued that Perth's proximity as a direct flight from the UK makes it a logical starting point. McDonald is relishing the heightened attention, noting that while the stadium has opened the last four Australian summers, the Ashes brings "a whole new level" of excitement.
Pitch Preparation Under the Microscope
One of the major talking points has been the condition of the pitch, which was installed just days before the stadium hosted a massive Metallica concert. McDonald moved to allay any fears, confirming that the wicket emerged from the concert "unscathed, with no scarring." He explained that the timing was actually perfect, allowing his team sufficient time to restore moisture and prepare the surface confidently for the Test match.
Reflecting on the chaotic first day of last year's Test against India, where 17 wickets fell, McDonald admitted a error in judgement. "On reflection maybe I was a day late on the prep," he said. Learning from this, his team has started preparations a day earlier this year to ensure the characteristic pace and bounce of a Perth pitch are present from day one.
The Test will be played on the same drop-in pitch used in the previous five matches at the venue, which was rated "very good" by the International Cricket Council despite the dramatic start against India. McDonald insists he operates independently, stating he has received "absolutely no directives from anyone ever" on how to prepare the wicket, and is committed to delivering the seam-friendly conditions for which Perth is famous.
Despite all the preparations, both Starc and McDonald acknowledge the uncertainty of how the pitch will play. Starc recalled the varied nature of previous wickets at the venue, from a "slow, flat wicket" to one that cracked up, while McDonald described the wait on the morning of the match as tortuous, a mix of excitement and anticipation until the first ball is bowled.
