Islamabad, 27 March 2025: Proposed AU$775 million waterfront stadium at Macquarie Point, a key component of the state’s AFL entry deal, has sparked concerns from Cricket Australia (CA) and Cricket Tasmania regarding its design.
The 23,000-seat venue has come under scrutiny as both cricket bodies warn that the design may not be suitable for hosting Test matches, particularly due to the impact of shadows cast by the proposed roof.
The stadium’s design, which includes a transparent, fixed dome-shaped roof supported by steel and timber, could potentially interfere with cricket gameplay, especially during day matches.
Both CA and Cricket Tasmania have voiced concerns about the shadowing effect on the cricket pitch block, which could hinder the visibility and conditions for players.
Read More: PSL 10 Exhibition Match in Doubt as PCB Flags Venue Concerns
In a letter to the state government, the cricket bodies suggested exploring alternatives, such as a roofless design or an operable roof, to address the issue.
Despite these concerns, the two cricket organizations have expressed their support for the stadium, emphasizing their desire to see the project progress.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who signed the AFL deal, assured that while the roof is a requirement, the government is open to design adjustments, including a partial roof.
Anne Beach, CEO of the Macquarie Point Development Corporation, explained that the current design features efficient beams, but shadows from these structures remain a challenge.
Read More: PCB Serves Legal Notice to Corbin Bosch Over PSL Exit
Various design modifications, including reducing timber beams or adjusting materials, are being considered to mitigate the issue.
The federal government has pledged AU$240 million towards the stadium’s development, with the AFL contributing AU$15 million.
The project will undergo further planning and assessments, with a draft report expected in March and a final report due in September.
The Tasmanian Labor opposition has also voiced concerns, questioning the feasibility of delivering such a project, especially given the untested nature of cross-laminated timber roofs for cricket.
