Follow rules or leave: Perth Test in jeopardy over Western Australia’s hardline stance on Covid-19

Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan’s hardline stance on Covid-19 regulations has put the fifth Ashes Test under huge jeopardy. Earlier scheduled to be hosted by Perth, things have come under dark clouds after McGowan openly stated that players along with the staff have to serve a 14-day quarantine period if they wish to play at Perth.

“They can’t just bring wives and girlfriends with them, (there are) the same rules as we put in place for the AFL.

“It is up to them whether they want to adhere to those rules or not.”

This comes after England and Wales Cricket Board had successfully negotiated the terms about bringing family members to Australia after Jos Buttler raised concerns. Buttler had stated earlier that players might be snubbing the Ashes if they are not allowed to travel with their families during the holiday season.

In the current schedule, there are no options to accommodate a 14-day quarantine period with the Sydney Test match finishing on 9 January and the Perth one starting on 14.

Cricket Australia has chosen not to make any comment at the moment, but it was long speculated that Perth might not able to host the final Test due to the strict regulations in the state.

Hobart’s Blundstone Arena might be the frontrunner to host the final match.