Brisbane is once again set to hold the first Ashes test at the Gabba stadium. It’s been an annual tradition since 1982, and the Woolloongabba Stadium is ready and excited to host the fans and players during this iconic match. Tickets have been selling fast since they were released, and the atmosphere is already building.

Watched around the world, you can catch the live action right here in Brisbane’s leading cricket stadium. Here’s what you need to know about the iconic series, and what to do while you’re in Brisbane to catch the first test.

The Ashes

A historic clash between the English and Australian men’s cricketing sides, the Ashes are a test cricket series that visit a number of locations with a tense match-up at every meeting. Brisbane always hosts the first Ashes test at the Gabba, which gives Australia a home team advantage and local fans a massive boost.

While this year could see fewer international fans visiting, Australians and ex-pats will be out in force, with tickets selling fast.

The Gabba

The Gabba is Queensland’s oldest sporting ground. Established in 1895, it has a long history of welcoming teams from around the world, and is a much-loved institution in Brisbane. The stadium is located just under 3 km away from the CBD, close to many different public transport options, and offers access to plenty of exciting venues and events.

The first game of the Ashes has always been hosted at the Gabba, in an unbroken tradition stretching back to 1982. Australia has a fantastic record against England at this stadium, winning 4 of their last 5 games and drawing one – which will have Australian fans in particular eagerly anticipating this next match. Spectators are impatiently awaiting the newest instalment in this historic match-up.

Attending the Ashes Test at the Gabba

Information about tickets to matches across the series can be found at the Cricket Australia website. To purchase tickets, check out Ticketek to see what’s still available. The Gabba seats 42,000 fans and is operating at full capacity, so the atmosphere of the crowd will be unbeatable.

Public transport is your best option for getting to the Gabba and exploring the surrounding areas. Your event ticket will include free public transport on all Queensland Rail and Brisbane bus services, but does not include the ferry or your Airtrain trip. You can visit Translink to plan your journey.

What to do

The Gabba is located less than 3 km away from Brisbane CBD, and is even closer to a wide range of food, drink, and entertainment venues. Close to public transport, you can explore the city and its surrounds before or after your day at the cricket. If you have some extra time, why not check out our suggestions on how to spend a few days in Brisbane.

Getting Around in Brisbane City

Airtrain will get you quickly and comfortably from the airport to Brisbane City in 20 minutes. You can disembark at your chosen city station – Airtrain runs express from the airport, but stops at Fortitude Valley, Central, Roma Street, and South Brisbane stations.

Brisbane is a beautiful city for walking, and many fantastic destinations are within an easy stroll along attractive walkways. To get to your destination faster or to see more of the sights, Brisbane is connected by an extensive bus network and the river is crisscrossed by the CityCat ferries.

All Brisbane public transport uses a smart card for travel, or you can purchase a paper ticket. Short term visitors should check out the go seeQ card, which allows you unlimited travel for 3 or 5 consecutive days on buses, trains, ferries and trams. It also includes 2 Airtrain journeys to/from the Brisbane Airport. For longer stays, travel like the locals with a go card – just touch on at your station of departure and touch off when you arrive at your destination.

First Ashes Test at the Gabba

Every Ashes match is historical, and this year is bound to produce something truly spectacular. Brisbane is proud to host the first test of the series, and with so many things to see and do it’s the ideal place to explore when not watching the cricket.

At Airtrain, we’re proud to partner with you to get you where you need to go. From your arrival at Brisbane Airport until you reach your destination, we’re committed to offering safe, reliable, comfortable travel that gets you where you need to go – on time, every time.