Sport
15 August, 2025
First-class cricket on display
Australia plays South Africa in T20 and one day international matches at Cazalys.
THE international cricket season lets fly in Cairns this Saturday, (August 16), with the men’s T20 series against South Africa at Cazalys Stadium.
Expected to be a thrilling, belter of a match, the T20 is an exciting opportunity to watch the fast-paced, world-class cricket in the tropics.
Fans will also have a second bite of the cherry when the men’s one day international between Australia and South Africa plays on Tuesday, August 19.
Australian fast bowler Nathan Ellis said he was keen to head to Far North Queensland, as he had not had much cricket time in the region.
“I am excited to get up there and see what it’s like on and off the field, what touring life is like in the top end of North Queensland,” he said.
“It’s going to be a really good series. South Africa is in a bit of a transition period with some new faces like us.
“It’s a tour everyone is looking forward to. There’s also lot of families coming to escape the southern winter which will be nice.”
Mr Ellis (pictured right) said Australia had had some good results against New Zealand last time the team was in FNQ, “so we have to try and uphold the record in Cairns”.
“It’s also great for Cairns to have a T20 as well as an ODI to showcase both sides. We certainly know there’s going to be some great cricket played –the rivalry with South Africa is as strong as any.”
Cazaly’s general manager Craig Lees said this week that Cricket Australia had announced a sell-out crowd for Saturday night’s T20 and the ODI was heading in the same direction.
“It goes to show that Cairns loves its cricket and loves its events,” he said.
“We’ve sold 43 corporate offerings which shows how local businesses will get behind cricket – and that’s while Amateurs is on this week. It’s massive. More than 10,500 fans are expected to fill the stadium.
“I can’t wait to see Cazalys under lights and see it being broadcast all over the world.”
He said the cricket events were critical in highlighting Cazalys Stadium as the perfect venue for the 2032 Olympics – should cricket be named next year as a sport.
“We have a role to play and these events show we’re ready for more,” Mr Lees said.
Tickets were still available for Tuesday’s ODI at the time of printing and are available at https://bit.ly/45uEni3
