Diehard cricket fans have flocked to Perth for the Ashes series opener, leading to record-breaking ticket sales and attendance at Optus Stadium. The city has reported some of its highest-ever hotel occupancy rates, with an estimated $10 million injection into the local economy.
The first Test drew 51,531 fans on Friday, the largest single-day crowd for a Test in Western Australia. The influx of visitors left few hotel rooms available, with occupancy reaching around 98 percent, according to Australian Hotels Association WA chief executive Bradley Woods.
Woods noted that while other major events have been held in WA, the Ashes Test ranks among the top one or two. Hotels were booked out six to eight months in advance, and the hospitality and retail industry is expected to see around $10 million in spending.
The series opener marked the return of Ashes cricket to Perth after the 2021/2022 Test was moved due to COVID restrictions. The atmosphere at the stadium and nearby pubs has been electric, with English fans from the Barmy Army adding to the excitement.
After Australia's eight-wicket victory, the two teams head to Brisbane for the second Test starting December 4. Despite the on-field rivalry, fans like English supporter Nigel emphasized the camaraderie, saying, 'At the end of the day, we're all friends and that's what sports is all about.'
