The Brisbane Test between India and Australia which was in doubt has now received the green light as the visitors have agreed to play the Gabba Test from January 15 to 19. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Cricket Australia (CA) reached an agreement after almost a week of confusion.
State Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced that the crowd for the 42,000-capacity Gabba ground would be capped at 50% for the final match of the India series.
CA said on Monday that India's touring party confirmed they are happy to play in Brisbane. The Men in Blue side have also agreed to the city's quarantine protocols.
"The fourth Test will be at the Gabba, as planned," interim CA chief executive Nick Hockley said on SEN Radio. "On the basis of yesterday’s discussions, we are full steam ahead to play the fourth Test at the Gabba."
While media reports suggest BCCI has asked CA to ensure the Indian contingent is out of the city soon after the match ends, there has been no formal communication from the Indian cricket board yet.
The two sides are even believed to have signed assurances from Queensland Health that players will be allowed to mingle within the hotel. Police also will not patrol the floors the players reside, given CA has hired the entire accommodation complex with players able to roam within.
The Indian cricket team underwent two weeks of strict quarantine upon their arrival Down Under. However, they had freedom while playing matches in Adelaide, Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne.
As for the Gabba Test, Australia last lost at the venue in 1988. Now with their undefeated run of 31 matches at the ground, it is the longest for any team at any venue in world cricket.