That series is taking place earlier than usual because of the ODI Champions Trophy to be played in Pakistan in February ahead of the Indian Premier League in March.
TEST SCHEDULE THIS SUMMER
- 1st Test, Perth: November 22-26
- 2nd Test, Adelaide: December 6-10
- 3rd Test, Brisbane: December 14-18
- 4th Test, Melbourne: December 26-30
- 5th Test, Sydney: January 3-7
Australian men’s team coach Andrew McDonald, who has signed a two-year contract extension to helm the side in all formats until the end of 2027, said the team had no qualms about playing on January 26 but the decision was out of their hands.
“That’s a decision that’s made by others,” he said. “It has been a day we’ve played cricket on, but there’s plenty of other days to play cricket on also.”
Indigenous members of the Australian women’s and men’s team have previously expressed their views on playing cricket on January 26, including the fast bowler Scott Boland and Ash Gardner.
“It’s a day of mourning for a lot of people. I’m not sure January 26 is the day that is inclusive of everyone,” Boland, Australia’s only active male Indigenous international cricketer, told this masthead last year. “Maybe it’s a bit of a broader discussion for other people.
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“Unfortunately it’s not for players to decide when we play. CA sorts out the schedule.
“I still think I’d play. I don’t think it’s a day to celebrate. The Test schedule this summer is a bit different to the last few years, given it’s been pushed back due to the [50-over] World Cup. I’m sure moving forward Cricket Australia … might set out a different plan going forward.”
Captain Pat Cummins has also expressed a preference for a date change for Australia Day.
“I absolutely love Australia … but I think we can probably find a more appropriate date to celebrate it,” he said. “Knowing a couple of those players [Gardner and Boland], you hear the stories and their feelings. Something that does gather extra importance.
“I think it is hard because January 26 does mean something different to different people. I think we’re all in unison that we absolutely love Australia and feel really lucky and privileged to be here in this country. But it is a delicate one. It’s going to be a tough day for some.”
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