England's cricketers could be set to play their final game at the WACA in 2017

03 September 2015 07:46

England could play their final Ashes match at the WACA Ground in 2017/18 after plans have been announced to move the Test to the new Perth Stadium.

As recommended by the West Australian Cricket Association's Vision 2030 report, all Tests and one-day internationals against England, India and South Africa will be played at the nearby 60,000 seater stadium at Burswood, due for completion in 2018.

The WACA, which will be renovated into a boutique ground with a capacity of up to 15,000, will continue to hold Sheffield Shield matches as well as Tests and ODIs not involving England, India and South Africa.

England have a wretched record at the WACA, which debuted as a Test venue in 1970, having only won once in 13 Tests and lost the last seven by heavy margins.

WACA chairman Sam Gannon said: "The new sporting precinct created with the nearby Perth Stadium will be first class and allow for Western Australia to benefit from additional fixtures, bigger international games and more tickets to high-demand matches."

The Vision 2030 report comes just a day after former Australia fast bowler Dennis Lillee resigned as WACA president following an 11-year tenure in an apparent protest at the plans.

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland supported the project, telling cricket.com.au: "The strategy for Australian cricket is all about putting fans first and that's exactly what this move will do.

"Having two world-class cricket grounds will be a tremendous boost for Australian and Western Australian cricket."

Source: PA