Optus Stadium boss Mike McKenna says the venue’s first-ever metal concert won’t impact the pitch for the first Ashes Test on November 21.
UPDATE: The sold-out Metallica concert at Optus Stadium in Perth poses no risk to the pitch ahead of the highly anticipated Ashes Test on November 21, according to CEO Mike McKenna. With 60,000 fans expected to attend the first-ever metal gig at the venue this Saturday, McKenna reassured cricket fans that the concert will not compromise the playing surface.
As excitement builds just three weeks before one of cricket’s most significant rivalries kicks off, McKenna emphasized that the weather conditions leading up to the Test are of greater concern. He stated, “Nothing to do with the concert (concerns-wise), that’s for sure,” in an interview with The West Australian.
Perth has faced unseasonal rains throughout October, with more expected in November. This has raised alarms regarding the turf at Optus Stadium, which has struggled in wet conditions, leading to muddy patches in previous seasons. However, McKenna is optimistic, asserting, “I think the deck’s always about the weather,” while ensuring that curators will have ample time to prepare.
To protect the wicket, McKenna confirmed that the center square will be covered prior to the concert and uncovered immediately after Metallica’s performance. “What we do with the Ashes wicket is we prepare it in advance, we cover it just as the concert’s about to start when people start coming in,” he explained. This allows curators to maintain the pitch while the concert unfolds.
The first Test against England is expected to be fiercely contested, with both teams eyeing victory on a pitch known for its pace and bounce. The stakes are higher this year, as England believes their aggressive game plan can topple the Australians.
Adding to the excitement, AC/DC is scheduled to perform at the stadium shortly after the first Test concludes, necessitating similar preparations to ensure the pitch is ready for the upcoming Big Bash League season, commencing with the Perth Scorchers facing the Sydney Sixers on December 14.
As fans gear up for the Metallica concert and the Ashes Test, all eyes will be on Perth. The anticipation is palpable, and with the weather playing a critical role, cricket lovers are eager to see how events unfold in the lead-up to the historic match.
