Canberra, Gold Coast to potentially host BBL final matches

Adelaide Strikers. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

The much-awaited final matches of the BBL (Big Bash League) could be played on the Gold Coast and in Canberra due to the venues clashing with the upcoming West Indies Test series. It is worth noting that Australia will play the West Indies at the Adelaide Oval from January 17–21, before the second Test at the Gabba from January 25–29.

BBL’s Brisbane Heat can host any final matches that the side earns at Heritage Bank Stadium, whereas Adelaide Strikers will host the early finals at Manuka Oval before their home ground becomes available for the final two matches of the tournament following the first Test.

The marquee tournament reverted to a four-team final structure after including five sides in previous seasons, with the first and second-placed sides playing the qualifiers; the sides that are placed third and fourth in the standings qualify through two knockout games.

It is also worth noting that every other side except Adelaide Strikers and Brisbane Heat will have access to their home venues for the upcoming finals series of the tournament. Adelaide Strikers currently find themselves in fourth place in the tournament standings and are well in the race to take over third place. Furthermore, the Adelaide Oval will become available for the challenger on January 22 and final on January 24, if the Strikers qualify.

The nature of this season means access to venues is a little tighter than usual: Alistair Dobson

Talking of the same matter, the general manager of the BBL, Alistair Dobson, came forward to say how grateful he was to the Manuka Oval and Heritage Bank Stadium management teams for their availability to host the final series of the BBL.

“The nature of this season means access to venues is a little tighter than usual, but we’ve been able to work with clubs to find solutions that suit both them and the fans and are grateful for Manuka Oval and Heritage Bank Stadium for making it possible to host finals matches,” Dobson was quoted as saying by The Australian.