What is the WACA Ground?
The WACA Ground is a historic cricket ground in East Perth, Western Australia, owned by the Western Australian Cricket Association. It was known for its fast, bouncy pitch and the afternoon sea breeze called the Fremantle Doctor.
The ground opened in the 1890s and hosted its first Test match in 1970. For decades, it was the home of Test cricket in Perth and of Western Australia's state cricket team.
The WACA's pitch was famous for pace and bounce, which made it a favorite of fast bowlers and a challenge for visiting batters. Many great fast bowlers, including Dennis Lillee, thrived there.
The Fremantle Doctor
The Fremantle Doctor is a cooling sea breeze that blows in from the ocean in the afternoon. It affected the movement of the ball and gave relief from the heat during summer matches.
After Optus Stadium opened in 2018, most international cricket in Perth moved to the new stadium. The WACA has been redeveloped to become a community and sporting hub.
The WACA also hosted Australian rules football, including the West Coast Eagles in their early years, as well as rugby, baseball and concerts. Matthew Hayden scored 380 against Zimbabwe at the WACA in 2003, then a Test world record.
Did You Know?
WACA stands for Western Australian Cricket Association.