England will take on the Prime Minister’s XI in a first-ever two-day pink-ball fixture at Canberra’s Manuka Oval on November 29–30, marking the first time such a match will be played under lights at the venue.
Scheduled between the Ashes opener in Perth and the second Test in Brisbane, the one-off match offers a preparation opportunity for England ahead of the day-night contest at the Gabba, which takes over hosting duties for the pink-ball Ashes Test this summer, traditionally held in Adelaide.
The match falls between rounds of the Sheffield Shield, meaning a strong pool of domestic players could be available for selection in the Prime Minister’s XI.
Speaking about the occasion, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “An Ashes series always captures the imagination of cricket fans. Like many Australians, I grew up both admiring and begrudging the brilliance of England stars like Ian Botham, David Gower, and Graham Gooch. I look forward to working with selectors to assemble a PM’s XI side that represents the best available talent from across the country to take on a quality England outfit.”
According to a statement from Cricket ACT, this will be the 11th time England will play in a PM’s XI match, but the first time it will be played with the pink Kookaburra ball.
“The PM’s XI fixture is a cherished part of Australian cricket, reflecting sporting excellence as well as the strong historical and cultural ties between Australia and its visitors,” the statement read. “This year’s match will highlight the celebrated cricketing rivalry and longstanding camaraderie between Australia and England. With the Ashes series underway, this contest promises to add an extra layer of intensity and significance in the capital.”
Before the day-night game in Canberra, the England team will also play a warm-up game against the England Lions prior to the Perth Test.
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