The city of Mackay in Queensland will make history this August when the region hosts its first ever cricket Test match.
Cricket Australia has confirmed the Great Barrier Reef Arena as a venue for the 2026 NRMA Insurance Men’s Test Series against Bangladesh.
Mackay Regional Council said the second test of the two‑match series will be played in Mackay from August 22 to 26, 2026, with play commencing at 10am local time.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was excited to build on the success of the two one day internationals played at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in 2025.
Williamson said, “The Australia versus South Africa games were tremendous. Both games were sell-outs and they showed us that we can attract strong crowds to our region for these world-class matches Mayor.
“To their credit, the team at the Great Barrier Reef Arena also showed that they can deliver matches of this calibre and cater for crowds in excess of 5000 without a hitch.
“This Test match is going to be an exciting first for us and council is extremely proud to be able to play our part in bringing this Test to our region with the Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program.”
Mackay is a city in the Mackay Region on the eastern or Coral Sea coast of Queensland, Australia. It is located about 803 kilometres (499 mi) north of Brisbane, on the Pioneer River.
The announcement marks a major milestone for the Great Barrier Reef Arena, which in recent years has cemented its reputation as one of Australia’s premier northern cricket venues.
The 10,000 capacity stadium has hosted a growing number of elite fixtures, including men’s and women’s internationals and four‑day Australia A matches against New Zealand (2023) and India (2024).
CEO of Great Barrier Reef Arena Adrian Young said this was a defining moment for the region that reinforced the importance of Great Barrier Reef Arena as a flagship sporting destination in Queensland.
Young said, “Hosting our first Test match is recognition that Mackay has earned its place on the international stage. It also reflects the confidence that Cricket Australia has in our venue, our team and our community.
“We have consistently demonstrated over several years that we can deliver elite international women’s and men’s cricket at the highest standard.
“As we continue to plan for Stage 2 of the venue’s development and look forward to playing a part in the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, this Test match cements Great Barrier Reef Arena’s reputation as northern Australia’s premier cricket venue.”
Mackay’s elevation to Test status is set to bring national attention to the region, boost visitation during the northern winter and showcase the Arena’s world‑class facilities.
The other Test in the series will be played in Darwin (Marrara Stadium, August 13 to 17, 2026).
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said northern Australia was perfectly positioned to host high-quality Test cricket outside the traditional summer window.
He said, “We’re delighted to bring Test cricket to Mackay and look forward to a fantastic series against Bangladesh.
“It is no secret the international calendar is now crowded and we’re fortunate to have world class facilities available in August ensuring we have another window for Test cricket outside summer.
“Great Barrier Reef Arena has proven to be an outstanding venue for international cricket in recent seasons and we’re grateful to the Queensland Government, Mackay Regional Council and Harrup Park for their strong support.”
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