Brisbane confirmed for fourth Australia-India Test with reduced crowd capacity

India have confirmed they will fly to Brisbane on Tuesday, where the final match of the series will be played in front of a reduced 50 per cent capacity crowd at the Gabba

Cricket Australia has confirmed the fourth Test between Australia and India, scheduled to start on Friday (January 15th), will take place at the Gabba in front of a reduced capacity crowd.

The location of final match of the series had been uncertain following reports that India were unwilling to travel due to concerns about strict quarantine conditions in the hotel. However, the visitors have now confirmed they will fly to Brisbane on Tuesday.

Following advice from the Queensland government, the Gabba will operate at a reduced 50 per cent capacity, with tickets due to be re-allocated on Wednesday afternoon.

Brisbane is currently obeying a three-day lockdown, triggered after the UK variant of COVID-19 was detected in the city, but the restrictions are due to be lifted at 6pm on Monday night.

Commenting on the arrangements, Cricket Australia’s interim chief executive officer Nick Hockley said: “We have been working closely with Queensland Health to ensure our strong biosecurity plans guarantees the fourth Test at The Gabba is played safely.

^{Matthew Wade looks on in frustration as India battle to secure a draw on the fifth day of the third Test.}

"Throughout the season, we have developed a strong track record for a safe and responsible return to sport thanks to our well-established biosecurity protocols, the ongoing support from public health officials and the incredible hard work of so many people across Australian cricket

"I want to thank the Queensland Government for their cooperation and willingness to working closely with CA and the BCCI so we can deliver the fourth Test as planned, but more importantly delivering on a plan that places the safety and wellbeing of the players, match officials and the wider community as a top priority."

Meanwhile, Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk issued this advice to fans: "The Gabba will be filled to half the capacity and masks are mandatory for entering, leaving and moving around the stadium.

"But if you are sitting there at your seat, you won't have to wear your mask because you are outside.”

The fourth Test between Australia and India is due to be played from January 15-19, with the series poised at 1-1.