Your Complete Guide to Australian Cricket Tours
Experience the Best of Australian Cricket Culture
Australia is the spiritual home of cricket, where passion for the game runs deep through the national identity. From the historic Ashes battles that captivate millions to the explosive entertainment of the Big Bash League, Australian cricket offers experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Whether you're a lifelong devotee following your team abroad, a casual fan seeking unforgettable sporting moments, or a family looking for exciting entertainment, our guided cricket tours provide the perfect way to immerse yourself in Australia's cricket culture.
The Ashes: Cricket's Greatest Rivalry
The Ashes series between Australia and England represents the pinnacle of Test cricket tradition. Dating back to 1882, this historic rivalry brings out passionate support, tactical masterclasses, and unforgettable moments that echo through cricket history. Our Ashes Experience tours place you at the heart of the action with premium seating at iconic venues like the MCG for the Boxing Day Test, the SCG for the New Year Test, and the Gabba where Australia traditionally dominates.
Beyond match tickets, our Ashes packages include expert commentary from former players and cricket journalists who provide insights into strategies, player performances, and the historical context that makes each session meaningful. Pre-match hospitality lunches, stadium tours revealing behind-the-scenes areas, and evening gatherings at traditional cricket pubs create a comprehensive Ashes experience that casual ticket-holders simply cannot access.
Big Bash League: Australia's T20 Phenomenon
The Big Bash League has transformed Australian summer evenings since 2011, bringing Twenty20 cricket to families and entertainment-seekers with affordable tickets, spectacular fireworks, innovative match presentations, and family-friendly atmospheres. Our Big Bash tours cater specifically to families and groups seeking accessible cricket action combined with city exploration.
BBL matches feature some of the world's best T20 specialists, emerging Australian stars, and international marquee players competing in fast-paced, strategic contests where momentum shifts rapidly. The evening scheduling means you can enjoy daytime city activities before heading to the match for sunset cricket under lights - a uniquely Australian sporting experience that's become a summer ritual for millions.
International Test Cricket in Australia
Beyond the Ashes, Australia hosts regular Test series against cricket powerhouses including India, Pakistan, South Africa, New Zealand, and the West Indies. These series often produce the highest quality cricket, with world-class players performing at their peak in conditions that test technique, temperament, and tactical acumen.
Recent years have seen extraordinary Test matches at Australian venues: India's historic series victories, thrilling day-night Tests at Adelaide Oval under lights, and record-breaking performances that enter cricket folklore. Our International Test Series packages provide flexible dates across these prestigious series, allowing you to witness cricket history as it unfolds.
Sheffield Shield: Australia's Cricket Nursery
For true cricket connoisseurs, Sheffield Shield matches offer a different kind of magic. Australia's premier domestic first-class competition has produced every great Australian cricketer since 1892, serving as the pathway to Test selection and the training ground where future legends develop their skills.
Shield matches play at a measured pace over four days, with smaller crowds creating intimate atmospheres where you can hear conversations on the field, watch technical aspects closely, and appreciate the nuances of first-class cricket. Historic suburban grounds, access to players and local cricket legends, and relaxed schedules make Sheffield Shield tours perfect for cricket purists who value quality over spectacle.
Women's Cricket: Supporting the Growing Game
Australian women's cricket has exploded in popularity and quality, with the Southern Stars (Australian Women's Cricket Team) dominating world cricket and the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) showcasing exceptional talent. Our dedicated Women's Cricket Tours support this growth while providing outstanding entertainment and value.
The Women's Ashes, WBBL finals, and international series against India, England, and New Zealand have produced memorable matches with passionate crowds and elite athleticism. By choosing our women's cricket packages, you're supporting the development of the game while experiencing high-quality cricket in welcoming, family-friendly environments.
Australia's Iconic Cricket Venues
Australian cricket grounds are among the world's finest sporting arenas, each with unique character, history, and atmosphere:
- Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG): The cathedral of Australian sport, hosting the Boxing Day Test before 100,000 fans, featuring world-class facilities and the Australian Sports Museum. Home to Melbourne Stars BBL team.
- Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG): Historic elegance with the members' pavilion, Ladies' Stand, and Hill providing diverse viewing experiences for the traditional New Year Test. Sydney Sixers BBL home ground.
- The Gabba, Brisbane: Australia's fortress where visiting teams struggle to win, known for pace-friendly pitches and humid conditions that challenge players. Brisbane Heat BBL venue.
- Adelaide Oval: Australia's most beautiful ground, featuring iconic scoreboards, hill seating with cathedral views, and pioneering day-night Test cricket under lights. Adelaide Strikers BBL home.
- Perth Stadium (Optus Stadium): Modern facilities with the fastest, bounciest pitches in Australia creating exciting, fast-paced cricket. Perth Scorchers BBL fortress.
- Bellerive Oval, Hobart: Intimate atmosphere with stunning mountain backdrops, known for result-producing pitches and cool Tasmanian weather. Hobart Hurricanes BBL venue.
- Manuka Oval, Canberra: Capital city cricket with regular ODI and T20 internationals in a scenic setting close to Parliament House and national attractions.
- Regional Venues: WACA Perth, Junction Oval Melbourne, North Sydney Oval - historic suburban grounds hosting Sheffield Shield and domestic cricket with intimate atmospheres.
What Makes Our Cricket Tours Special
Cooee Tours has specialized in Australian sports tourism for over 15 years, with cricket tours representing our passion project. Our guides aren't just coordinators - they're cricket tragics who live and breathe the game, bringing depth of knowledge and genuine enthusiasm that transforms match attendance into comprehensive cricket education.
We maintain relationships with Cricket Australia, state associations, and venues that provide access ordinary fans cannot secure: behind-the-scenes tours, meet-and-greet opportunities with former players, pre-match pitch inspections, and hospitality packages that enhance your match-day experience. Small group sizes ensure personalized service, flexibility, and the ability to cater to individual interests within the group context.
Planning Your Australian Cricket Tour
The Australian cricket season runs from October through March, with scheduling varying by format:
- October-November: Sheffield Shield begins, early international series, WBBL starts, ODI series
- December-January: Peak season with Ashes or major Test series, Big Bash League in full swing, Boxing Day and New Year Tests, international T20 matches
- February-March: Season concludes with Sheffield Shield finals, final international matches, WBBL finals, Women's cricket series
We recommend booking major series (Ashes, India series) 6-12 months in advance to secure best accommodation and tickets. Big Bash and Sheffield Shield tours can often be booked with 2-3 months notice. Contact us as soon as schedules are announced for optimal availability and pricing.
Combining Cricket with Australian Travel
Cricket tours provide excellent foundations for broader Australian adventures. Melbourne offers cosmopolitan dining, cultural attractions, laneways, and Great Ocean Road access. Sydney combines cricket with harbor experiences, Bondi Beach, Opera House, and Blue Mountains. Brisbane serves as gateway to Queensland's Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Great Barrier Reef. Adelaide provides wine region access to Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.
We can arrange pre-tour or post-tour extensions, additional accommodation, day trips, wine tours, and connections to other Cooee Tours experiences including rugby tours, AFL matches, motorsport events, and tennis tours. Many international guests combine cricket tours with comprehensive Australian itineraries - we're happy to facilitate connections with broader travel planning.
Cricket Tour Tips & Information
To make the most of your Australian cricket tour:
- Weather: Australian summers are hot - bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses. Adelaide and Perth can exceed 40°C. Melbourne weather changes quickly. Brisbane is humid. Always check forecasts.
- What to Wear: Casual dress at all venues. Some members' areas require collared shirts. BBL matches suit team colors and fancy dress. Comfortable shoes essential for large venues.
- Food & Drink: Most venues allow sealed water bottles. Food policies vary. Hospitality packages include meals. Venue food ranges from pies to premium dining.
- Accessibility: All major venues provide wheelchair access, accessible seating, companion cards, and facilities. Inform us of requirements when booking.
- Photography: Personal photography allowed, professional equipment restricted. No flash during play. Share memories on social media!
- Transport: All match-day transport included in our packages. Public transport excellent to MCG, SCG, Adelaide Oval. Parking difficult at major matches.
Understanding Australian Cricket Culture
Australian cricket crowds are passionate, knowledgeable, and welcoming. Expect good-natured banter, especially at the Gabba and SCG. The Barmy Army (English supporters) create incredible atmosphere during Ashes series. Mexican waves, chants, and traditions vary by venue. Bay 13 at the MCG is famous for rowdy support. Adelaide Oval hill offers relaxed family atmosphere. Big Bash matches feature music, entertainment, and fireworks between overs.
Cricket Legends & History
Our tours celebrate Australian cricket's rich heritage. Learn about Sir Donald Bradman (batting average 99.94), Shane Warne's magical spin bowling, the Invincibles 1948 tour, Steve Waugh's leadership, Ricky Ponting's dominance, Glenn McGrath's precision, and modern stars like Steve Smith, Pat Cummins, and Ellyse Perry. Visit museums, historic grounds, and cricket landmarks throughout your journey.
Sustainable Cricket Tourism
Cooee Tours is committed to sustainable tourism practices. We partner with eco-certified accommodation where possible, use fuel-efficient transport, minimize single-use plastics, and support local businesses in cricket communities. Cricket venues increasingly implement sustainability initiatives including recycling programs, renewable energy, water conservation, and waste reduction - we're proud to support these efforts.
Group Bookings & Custom Tours
Planning a cricket tour for your club, corporate group, or large family gathering? We specialize in custom group packages from 10 to 50+ guests. Benefits include exclusive experiences, flexible itineraries, team-building activities, private guides, and group discounts. Popular for cricket club tours, corporate entertainment, milestone celebrations, and international supporter groups following national teams.
International Visitors Welcome
We host cricket fans from England, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and beyond. Services for international guests include visa guidance, airport transfers, extended accommodation, cultural orientation, dietary accommodations, and connections to broader Australian travel. Our guides help international visitors understand Australian cricket culture, rules, and traditions.
Book Your Australian Cricket Tour Today
Whether you dream of witnessing an Ashes Test at the MCG, enjoying family Big Bash entertainment, following your national team on tour, exploring Australia's domestic cricket heritage, or experiencing women's cricket excellence, Cooee Tours provides expert guidance, comprehensive packages, and passionate service that turns cricket attendance into unforgettable Australian adventures.
Our booking process is straightforward: complete the enquiry form above, and we'll respond within 24 hours with detailed itineraries, current pricing, availability, and answers to your questions. Flexible payment plans, transparent pricing, and comprehensive pre-tour information ensure you're fully prepared for your cricket adventure.
Join thousands of cricket fans who've trusted Cooee Tours to deliver exceptional Australian cricket experiences. The next historic match, unforgettable moment, and lifelong cricket memory awaits - let us help you get there.