Brisbane to regain first Test of summer after 2032 Olympics after losing it to Optus Stadium in Perth
A day after locking in plans for the Olympics Stadium, the Queensland government is trumpeting a deal that will return the Test summer opener to Brisbane.
Queensland premier David Crisafulli says the first Ashes Test of 2032-33, months after the Olympics, will be played at the new 63,000-seat Victoria Park venue.
Due to uncertainty about the stadium situation, Brisbane will not host a Test during the 2026-27 summer for the first time in 50 years.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The Gabba has also lost its semi-permanent status of the first Test of the summer to Optus Stadium in Perth, but will still host a day-night match during the 2025-26 Ashes against England.
Brisbane’s traditional cricket and Australian Rules football home, will be demolished and eventually become an entertainment and housing precinct after the 2032 AFL season.
All international cricket, Big Bash League games, and Brisbane Lions matches will be played at the new Brisbane stadium following the Olympics.
“Cricket is embedded in Queensland’s DNA, and the decision to build a world-class stadium at Victoria Park ensures it has a future in this state,” the premier said.
“Test cricket belongs in Queensland, and this decision means fans won’t miss out on seeing some of the best cricket teams play Test matches in Brisbane right through to the summer before Brisbane 2032 where we regain our title as host of the first Test of the summer.”
CA chairman Mike Baird was thrilled Brisbane had secured a long-term home for cricket.
“Cricket now has the certainty needed to ensure Brisbane hosts the very best possible international and domestic matches and retains a prominent place on the Test match schedule,” he said.
“International cricket brings significant economic benefits for the people of Queensland and those benefits will be greatly enhanced by the construction of a world-class 63,000 seat stadium in the heart of Brisbane.
“The Gabba will continue to continue to host outstanding matches in coming years including this summer’s day-night Ashes Test before the new stadium at Victoria Park begins an exciting new chapter for Queensland and Australian cricket.”
