Darwin is getting set for a Dry season like no other, with international cricket making its long-awaited return to the Northern Territory and tickets now up for grabs. Two drop-in wickets were installed at TIO Stadium today, kicking off preparations for a packed few months of action, including the Australia A v Sri Lanka A series in July and two T20 internationals between Australia and South Africa on 10 and 12 August.
Cricket fans eager to be part of the spectacle can now access pre-sale tickets for the T20 matches, with general sale expected to follow. This marks the first time in 17 years that international cricket will be played in the Top End.
There’s added excitement for locals, with Territorian Jake Weatherald named in the Australia A squad for the multi-format July series against Sri Lanka A. It’s a homecoming of sorts for the left-hander, whose selection brings both recognition and pride for Territory cricket.
Minister for People, Sport and Culture, Jinson Charls, was at TIO Stadium to witness the pitch installation and said the sight of cricket wickets being lowered onto the ground symbolised much more than the start of preparations.
“These drop-in wickets are an essential part of staging top-level matches, and to have Jake Weatherald back in the Territory as part of Australia A just adds another layer to the story,” said Mr Charls. “This year is about action, certainty and security, and bringing world cricket to Darwin ticks all those boxes while putting the spotlight firmly on our capacity to host big sporting events.”
Tourism and major events are expected to benefit in equal measure. Minister for Major Events, Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby pointed to the wider impact of having Australia play a T20 series against South Africa in Darwin.
“These events carry serious weight. They create jobs, fill hotels, boost local business, and give people a reason to visit or return to the Top End,” Ms Boothby said. “We’re proud to have secured international cricket for the Territory again. It’s been nearly two decades, and we know fans from across the country will make the trip.”
Cricket Australia’s decision to send teams to Darwin reflects growing interest in expanding the game’s footprint in the north. While top-level matches have been rare in the region, the push to include more states and communities in the national cricket story appears to be gaining momentum.
NT Cricket CEO Gavin Dovey described the wicket installation as a turning point.
“When international cricket arrives, the world’s watching. This isn’t just another match—it’s a global event,” said Mr Dovey. “Cricket is central to who we are as Australians, and we’re thrilled to see TIO Stadium gearing up to host thousands of fans in August.”
The Australia A series against Sri Lanka A is set to begin in July, with formats across both red and white ball. The T20 internationals in August promise to be the marquee events of the season, featuring big names, national pride, and a pitch freshly dropped into the middle of Darwin’s biggest sporting venue.
Tickets for the T20 matches are currently available through pre-sale channels, with the general public release scheduled for 13 June.
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🏏#Cricket returns to #Darwin after 17yrs! Aus vs SA T20s (10-12 Aug) & Aus A vs SL A (July). 🎟️ Pre-sale tickets live, general sale 13 June. 🌟 Local hero Jake Weatherald in Aus A squad. #TheIndianSun @CricketAus
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