The Victorian government is “very keen” for the MCG to host the fifth Ashes Test between Australia and England if the match is moved from Perth.
The Test, initially scheduled for Optus Stadium, could be relocated due to WA premier Mark McGowan’s strict 14-day quarantine rules for all players and staff wanting to enter the state.
“We’ve said to them, ‘You need to have 14 days quarantine’. And that has to apply to all the broadcast staff, the cricket staff,” McGowan said.
“They can’t just bring wives and girlfriends with them – same rules as we put in place for the AFL.
“It’s up to them whether they want to adhere to those rules or not.”
Victorian Sports Minister Martin Pakula says the MCG’s claims to host a second Ashes Test this summer are “pretty close to undeniable”.
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Pakula also added that Cricket Australia is aware of Victoria’s interest to host the fifth Test, slated for January 14-18 next year.
“The Victorian government has certainly made it clear to Cricket Australia that if the Perth Test is unable to go ahead that we’d be not just prepared to host the fifth Test, but very keen to host the fifth Test,” Pakula told reporters on Wednesday.
“I’ve spoken to Cricket Australia, and they’ve got a decision to make, firstly about whether they go with Perth … and if they can’t go to Perth and it’s a commercial decision, then I think the MCG’s claims are pretty close to undeniable.
“We will wait and see, but Cricket Australia is well aware of our interest.”
A day-night Test at the MCG has been speculated since WACA CEO Christina Matthews conceded Perth is a “50-50” chance to host the Ashes clash.
Hobart’s Bellerive Oval and the SCG have also been floated as potential alternative venues.