Melbourne, Feb 25 (.) ICC World Test Championship leaders Australia national cricket team will host Bangladesh national cricket team in a two-Test series in August, with matches scheduled in Darwin and Mackay, Cricket Australia announced.
The opening Test will begin on August 13 at Marrara Stadium in Darwin, marking the return of five-day cricket to the northern city for the first time since 2004, while the second and final Test will be held at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay from August 22.
Australia currently top the World Test Championship standings following their 4-1 Ashes triumph over England and will aim to continue their strong run at home.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said the board was pleased to bring Test cricket back to northern Australia.
“We’re delighted to bring Test cricket to northern Australia and look forward to a fantastic series against Bangladesh,” Greenberg said.
“It is no secret the international calendar is now crowded, and we’re fortunate to have world-class facilities available in August, ensuring we have another window for Test cricket outside summer,” he added.
Australia will travel to South Africa for a three-Test series in October after hosting Bangladesh, before returning home for a four-Test series against New Zealand across December and January.
Bangladesh, currently placed eighth in the World Test Championship standings, are scheduled to host Pakistan for two Tests in May ahead of their tour of Australia.
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