International cricket takes over the Top End this August
Test cricket is set to make its long‑awaited return to the Northern Territory, with Darwin preparing to host its first red‑ball international in 22 years. From 13 to 17 August, Marrara Stadium will come alive as Australia takes on Bangladesh in a five‑day Test Match, a major milestone for sport in the Top End and a historic moment for Territory cricket fans.
The August Test officially opens Cricket Australia’s 2026–27 International Schedule, the biggest season in Australian cricket history. Running from August through to March, the record‑breaking eight‑month program features 24 international matches across 13 venues, anchored by a historic 150th Anniversary Test. With Darwin launching the national summer, the Territory will play a central role in one of the most significant seasons ever staged in Australian cricket.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said the return of Test cricket to Darwin marks an important moment for the sport nationally.
‘The return of Test cricket to Darwin after 22 years is a significant moment for Australian cricket and we're very pleased fans in the Northern Territory will have a chance to share the moment with the players. We want to bring our champion teams to as many Australian locations as possible and the Westpac Community Event will give people the opportunity to meet the Australian Test team and be part of the excitement ahead of another Summer of Cricket.’
Ahead of the Test, fans can meet the Australian Men’s Cricket Team at a free Westpac‑supported community event at the Darwin Waterfront on Sunday 9 August from 4pm. The event will include autograph and photo opportunities with players, a Surf Life Saving NT community BBQ and cricket‑themed activities for families and fans.
Cricket NT CEO Gavin Dovey said the Top End is ready to welcome the cricket community once again.
‘We are so proud to open the 2026–27 Australian Summer of Cricket right here in the Top End. Last year’s Westpac Community Event at Darwin Waterfront was an amazing opportunity for thousands of local and interstate cricket fans to meet their heroes. We’d like to thank Westpac for making it happen again and giving our cricket‑loving community the opportunity to meet a generational Australian Test team.’
Cricket action begins even earlier with a three‑day red‑ball warm‑up match between the Cricket Australia XI and Bangladesh at DXC Arena (Marrara Cricket Ground) from 6 to 8 August.
The match will feature one of the Territory’s own —Darwin‑born Tom Menzies, returning home to represent the CA XI. Menzies progressed from junior cricket in Darwin to premier cricket in South Australia and now steps onto the field against an international touring side in front of family, friends and the local cricket community.
Menzies is also a close family friend of Australia’s current Test opener Jake Weatherald, who was born and raised in Darwin, with both players having grown up playing cricket together.
This major event reinforces the Territory’s position on both the national and international cricket calendars and strengthens Darwin’s reputation as a must‑visit destination for world‑class sporting experiences.
The 2026 Test Match is proudly supported by the Northern Territory Government through Tourism NT and Events NT. Every ball of the series will be broadcast live on Foxtel, Kayo Sports, Seven and 7plus, with radio coverage available via ABC, Triple M and SEN.
Don’t miss your chance to witness history. Test Match tickets start from $32 for adults, $11 for children or $69 for families (2 adults, 2 children). Reserved grandstand tickets are also available. Go to the Cricket Australia website to buy your tickets.
