Photo Credit: Cricket Australia
Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s Head of Big Bash Leagues, has today released the following statement:
“The KFC Big Bash League wishes to thank the people of Canberra for their extraordinary contribution to the success of the KFC BBL|10 season,” Dobson said.
“The commitment of everyone in Canberra, led by the ACT Government, especially Venues Canberra and ACT Health, and Cricket ACT, ensured that 13 of the 60 KFC BBL|10 matches played to date could be delivered safely and successfully at Manuka Oval. Canberra became a home away from home for the Sydney Thunder and Sydney Sixers and their fans in particular, while also hosting three Finals series matches.
“Special mention must go to the Cricket ACT curators, led by Brad van Dam, who worked tirelessly to ensure Manuka Oval and all training facilities were presented to a world class standard as well as our accommodation providers who allowed us to maintain the BBL hub throughout the tournament.
“On multiple occasions, Team Canberra also stepped up at short notice to make Manuka Oval and their support staff available to the League to ensure we could deliver a full season without interruption.
“This commitment to the KFC BBL was again on display as recently as last Sunday, when the rapidly evolving situation in WA meant we needed to find a new venue for The Challenger at short notice. Within hours, Manuka was secured thanks to the tireless efforts of all stakeholders.
“We’d also like to recognise the people of Canberra, who have shown their love of the Big Bash on all 12 occasions at which we welcomed crowds into Manuka. In all, over 50,000 fans have come through the gates to enjoy high quality cricket in a COVID-safe environment and we look forward to bringing them more cricket next year.
“In addition to the people of Canberra, the League also wishes to thank the staff of Cricket NSW and the Sydney Thunder who played a major role in the delivery of each match at Manuka Oval. The ongoing public health situation meant many of these people made significant adjustments to their at-home life to ensure they could continue to travel to the ACT and deliver these matches and the League is exceptionally grateful.
“As always, we’d like to thank all state and territory governments, our clubs, broadcast partners, commercial partners and the players and staff who have come together to make the summer of Big Bash so enjoyable for our fans.
“Just one match remains in our 120-game summer of Big Bash, and what a fitting finale it will be. The KFC BBL|10 Final between the Sydney Sixers and Perth Scorchers at the SCG will see the two sides face off in the decider for the fourth time, including in the first ever Final in KFC BBL|01, a fitting end to the competition’s tenth season. We can’t wait to get to the Sydney for the first time this season and see a full house of our loyal and enthusiastic fans at the SCG.”
