Pakistan and Australia will face each other in the first Test Match of the 2023 summer with the Australians hosting Pakistan across five days from December 14 to December 18 at Optus Stadium, Perth.
In this regard, Cricket Australia (CA) has introduced a new name for the Perth Test, calling it ‘The West Test,’ and has unveiled an exciting in-stadium experience inspired by the iconic WACA ‘The West Test Hill.’
The West Test Hill, consisting of three tiers, can accommodate up to 500 spectators at a time. It features a family area with games for children and shaded seating areas for fans to relax and enjoy the first Test match of the summer.
Moreover, the CommBank Women’s International Series Test match between Australia and South Africa will also be branded as ‘The West Test,’ ensuring continuity between women’s and men’s cricket and Test matches across the state’s two venues.
Joel Morrison, Cricket Australia’s General Manager of Events & Operations, stated that international cricket in Perth has always been a highlight of the Australian summer. The ‘West Test’ will elevate this experience by combining top-notch cricket action on the field with fantastic in-stadium experiences, particularly on ‘The Hill,’ with the support of NRMA Insurance.
“International cricket in Perth has always been one of the great events of the Australian summer. “The ‘West Test’ will take this to another level combining world-class action on the field with brilliant experiences for fans within the stadium, including on ‘The Hill’ thanks to the support of NRMA Insurance,” Morrison said.
Morrison also highlighted the renewed rivalry between Australia and Pakistan, following their long-awaited tour to Pakistan last year, as an exciting way to kick off men’s international cricket for the summer.
“The historic rivalry between Australia and Pakistan has been rekindled since our long-awaited tour to Pakistan last year so there is no better way to launch men’s international cricket this summer via the West Test in one of the world’s great cities,’ he further added.
Christina Matthews, CEO of WA Cricket, emphasized that ‘The West Test’ will give Western Australians something unique to be proud of. She also expressed anticipation for collaborating with CA and all partners in the game to further develop ‘The West Test’ event.
“The West Test will give Western Australians something to be proud of – Women’s and Men’s Test matches that feel uniquely ours and showcase our brilliant stadia to the world. The first step in the transformation of our Men’s Test is The Hill, providing WA cricket fans with a new way to experience Australia’s clash with Pakistan at our world class Perth Stadium. We look forward to working with CA and all partners in the game to continue developing The West Test event as we move towards series against India and England in coming years,” Christiana said.
