Mackay To Host Elite International Cricket This August

Mackay will make cricket history this August, hosting its first-ever international Test match.

Cricket Australia confirmed on Wednesday, 25 February, that the Great Barrier Reef Arena will stage the second Test of the 2026 NRMA Insurance Men’s Test Series against Bangladesh. The match runs from 22–26 August 2026, with play starting at 10am local time each day, giving fans the chance to watch world-class cricket on home turf.

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.

“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 Williamson said.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

CEO of Great Barrier Reef Arena Adrian Young said this was a defining moment for the region.

“Hosting our first Test match is recognition that Mackay has earned its place on the international stage,” Mr Young said.

“It also reflects the confidence that Cricket Australia has in our venue, our team and our community,” he said.

“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.”

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said northern Australia was perfectly positioned to host high-quality Test cricket outside the traditional summer window.

“We’re delighted to bring Test cricket to Mackay and look forward to a fantastic series against Bangladesh,” Mr Greenberg said.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

Mackay will make history this August, hosting its first-ever international Test match at the Great Barrier Reef Arena as part of the 2026 NRMA Insurance Men’s Test Series against Bangladesh from 22–26 August. Photo source: Great Barrier Reef Arena

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