Just weeks after predicting a record-breaking year, Cricket Australia (CA) is staring at a multi-million-dollar loss following the lightning-fast finish to the Ashes opener.
The match ended late on day two, thanks to Travis Head’s explosive century and England’s Bazball-inspired batting collapse. The early finish has left CA facing an estimated $3 million loss in ticket revenue for days three and four, which were nearly sold out.
Despite the financial setback, attendance records were broken. A total of 101,514 fans packed the stadium over two days 51,531 on Friday and 49,983 on Saturday surpassing the previous Perth record of 96,463 set during India’s four-day victory last year.
CA chief executive Todd Greenberg admitted he had joked before play on Saturday that he feared the Test might not even reach day three. Speaking to SEN, he acknowledged the broader impact: “It’s difficult for a number of different groups our broadcasters first of all, certainly us on ticket sales, and our partners and sponsors. There’s a big economic impact on this series.”
The rapid conclusion has highlighted the unpredictable nature of Test cricket, where thrilling performances can sometimes come at a heavy financial cost.
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