Cricket enthusiasts in Western Australia are being treated to an extraordinary opportunity to explore the inner workings of Optus Stadium just hours before the highly anticipated Ashes series kicks off. The exclusive behind-the-scenes tours are giving lucky fans unprecedented access to areas typically reserved for players and officials.
Construction Workers Return as VIP Guests
Among the first to experience the special access were Josh and Martin Reed, two English cricket tragics with a unique connection to the venue. Both men worked on the stadium's construction team for four years, making their return as VIP guests particularly meaningful.
"I worked on the construction site for four years and it's amazing to get down here and see it all finished off," Josh Reed expressed with visible excitement. "To be standing here in the change rooms and there is all the names of the players from both sides - this is something I didn't expect to do."
Comprehensive Stadium Access
The Stadium Test Tour offers participants a comprehensive look at the world-class facility, spanning more than an hour and covering multiple key areas. Visitors get to walk along the pitch sideline, explore the team bunker, and inspect the indoor practice pitches.
The experience reaches literal new heights with access to the Sky View Deck positioned 42 meters above the field, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the entire stadium complex.
International Perspective on Stadium Design
Martin Reed, who has attended cricket matches at numerous international venues including Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane and various grounds in the UK, was particularly impressed by Optus Stadium's design. "I have my tickets booked for the game but this tour is nearly as exciting," he noted. "The design of this place is something else."
The tours represent a rare chance for supporters to walk the same corridors where cricket legends from both the Australian and English teams will prepare for one of sport's greatest rivalries.
Limited Time Opportunity
Cricket fans need to act quickly to secure their spot on these exclusive tours. Optus Stadium will be running the special access tours until 2pm on Thursday, just before Australia and England go head-to-head in the first Ashes Test match.
The timing allows visitors to experience the stadium in its pristine, pre-match condition, adding to the sense of anticipation building around one of cricket's most celebrated competitions.
