Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared Perth is already at capacity as the city prepares to host the first Ashes Test match, while simultaneously taking a cheeky shot at England's famous travelling supporters, the Barmy Army.
Prime Minister's Playful Pre-Ashes Banter
In comments that blended tourism promotion with classic cricketing rivalry, the Australian leader confirmed Perth's Optus Stadium would host the first Ashes Test from December 14. Mr Albanese used the announcement to deliver some characteristically Australian humour directed at England's vocal fan group.
'Perth is full - there is no room at the inn,' the Prime Minister stated during his media appearance. He quickly followed this with a tongue-in-cheek warning for the English supporters: 'Sorry to the Barmy Army, you can't come. We're full up.'
The comments were delivered with a smile, maintaining the friendly yet competitive spirit that defines the historic Ashes rivalry between Australian and English cricketing nations.
Western Australia's Welcome Despite Capacity Claims
Despite his humorous claims about Perth being at capacity, the Western Australian government has been actively promoting the state as a premier destination for major sporting events. The upcoming Ashes Test represents a significant moment for the state's summer of cricket.
The first Test is scheduled to begin on December 14 at Perth's Optus Stadium, marking a return of the prestigious Ashes series to Western Australia. Cricket authorities anticipate strong attendance numbers given the significance of the contest and the state's enthusiastic sporting culture.
Mr Albanese's comments reflect the traditional banter that accompanies Ashes series, where psychological mind games often begin long before the first ball is bowled. His remarks about the Barmy Army continue a long tradition of Australian leaders engaging with the sporting rivalry.
Broader Context of Australia-England Sporting Relations
The Prime Minister's playful jab comes amid generally positive relations between Australia and England across various sporting codes. The Barmy Army, known for their vocal but generally good-natured support of the English cricket team, have become an institution in world cricket.
Their presence at Australian grounds has typically been welcomed, bringing colour and atmosphere to Test matches, even as Australian fans and officials enjoy engaging in friendly rivalry with them. Mr Albanese's comments fit perfectly within this tradition of respectful but competitive banter.
Cricket Australia has confirmed all arrangements for the upcoming Ashes series, with the Perth Test commencing on December 14 as the opening encounter of what promises to be another thrilling contest between the historic rivals.
While the Prime Minister joked about Perth being full, tourism officials are undoubtedly hoping his comments will have the opposite effect, generating even greater interest in travelling to Western Australia for the prestigious cricket event.
