On a night when floodlights and the pink ball took centre stage in Brisbane for their biggest ever non-Ashes Test crowd, 26,343 spectators were present to salute Steve Smith’s unbeaten century for Australia on the opening day of their first Test against Pakistan.
The attendance eclipsed the previous best first day crowd for a non-Ashes Test Match of 25,114 which came on 9 November, 2012 when Australia took on South Africa, the first time in more than 30 years that the Proteas had played at the Gabba.
Smith’s 110 not out, together with opener Matthew Renshaw’s 71, helped Australia to 288-3 at the close. The day belonged to Australia’s captain and by the time he reached his hundred, early reflections revealed an innings of both patience and style.
Unique match experience
To mark the Day-Night Test against Pakistan, Cricket Australia installed a pool and multi-tiered deck inside the Gabba itself, allowing fans to escape the summer heat and relax by the pool without missing any of the action.
Cricket Australia said it would be “a unique match experience” during the day-night game at the Gabba ground from December 15. Featuring a pool and two large tiered decks with seating, tables and shade, the Pool Deck at the Gabba gave fans the chance to take a dip, escape the heat, and relax in comfort while still enjoying world class Test cricket action.
Fans were also able to enjoy the atmosphere of a beach-themed area at “Sandy Point” in the grounds adjacent to the Gabba. Sandy Point offers premium food and drink options as well as plenty of seating and a big screen to watch all the action, providing a unique way to start or end a day at the cricket.
Don’t miss out on UK’s first ever Day/Night Test Match
The UK’s first ever Day/Night Test Match will take place at Edgbaston on Thursday 17 – Monday 21 August when England return to their fortress to take on the West Indies. With an electric atmosphere, fancy dress and a huge range of fan activities, this historic match under the Edgbaston floodlights is a must see. Tickets are on sale priced at just £6 for Under 16s and £26 for Adults which can be purchased by calling 0844 847 1902 or clicking here to buy online.
