Lillee quits as Tests moved away from WACA

SYDNEY: Dennis Lillee quit as president of the Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) as a new plan unveiled on Thursday showed Tests against India, England, and South Africa will move to the new Perth Stadium.
The cricket legend abruptly resigned ahead of the release of the WACA’s Vision 2030 report, telling the West Australian newspaper: “I cannot stand by and watch what is happening at the WACA. I do not wish to be part of it any longer.”
Under the new plan, international limited-overs games and Test matches involving South Africa, India, and England will move from the existing WACA ground to the new Aus$1.2 billion (US$840 million) Perth Stadium, which will be completed by 2018 and have a 60,000 capacity.
Big Bash League matches will also shift from the ageing WACA ground, but it will still host Sheffield Shield matches and Test and one-day internationals not involving South Africa, England, and India.
WACA chairman Sam Gannon said the report, which he endorsed, followed a 14-month review that will also see the WACA ground redeveloped into a “modern boutique stadium” with a capacity of up to 15,000 at a cost of up to Aus$200 million.
“We now have the opportunity to showcase the best of world and domestic cricket at two modern stadiums, providing players and spectators with facilities expected for modern sport,” he said.
“Cricket patrons in Western Australia acknowledge that the WACA ground facilities need improving and the WACA board has committed to a clear framework to invest in upgrades and ensure the ongoing viability of the WACA ground and cricket in Western Australia.”
Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland said the game’s peak body strongly supported the Vision 2030 blueprint.
“The strategy for Australian cricket is all about putting fans first and that’s exactly what this move will do,” he said.
“Having two world-class cricket grounds will be a tremendous boost for Australian and Western Australian cricket.”
Former fast bowler Lillie had been WACA president since 2004 and Gannon admitted his resignation came as a surprise.
“The board will seek to get some clarification from Dennis on his specific concerns and we will continue to work openly with our members, staff and the media in regards to all appropriate information,” he said.