ANDREW Barr says the ACT Government has entered into an agreement with Cricket Australia to host one day international cricket at Manuka Oval for the next four years.

The first international one-day game to be held under the agreement will feature the World Champions Australia against fierce rivals India on 20 January 2016.

“Over $16 million has been invested at Manuka Oval in recent years which have ensured it is the best boutique sporting venue in the country,” Andrew said.

“I am proud that because of these investments, I was able to secure the first ever One Day International Cricket game, Cricket World Cup games and the Big Bash Final for Canberra.

“Bringing major international cricket to Canberra is a huge boost to both our economy and our community. Over 23,000 fans attended the three Cricket World Cup games this summer at Manuka. The Big Bash League final attracted a near sell out and attracted over 2 million TV viewers – providing a fantastic opportunity to showcase Canberra as a tourist destination.

Cricket Australia Acting CEO Mike McKenna said the four-year partnership between the ACT Government and Cricket Australia recognises the Canberra public’s support of international and domestic cricket over recent years and highlighted how this partnership delivers terrific promotional opportunities for the ACT Government to market Canberra to a global audience.

“The Canberra public have been great supporters of international and domestic cricket over the last few years, and this long-term partnership is due recognition of this, and the strategic focus of Australian Cricket in Canberra and the broader region from the grassroots through to the elite,” Mike said.

“Manuka Oval is one of the best boutique venues in the country, particularly under lights, so it’s great to see Canberra secure a regular stream of international content.”

Cricket ACT CEO Cameron French said to have an arrangement that ensures regular content not only maximises the use of the wonderful facility that is Manuka Oval, but will also serve to inspire the next generation of junior players from the ACT.

“Cricket ACT, Cricket Australia and Cricket NSW are working closely together, and with the ACT Government, to grow cricket in Canberra and the broader region, and today’s announcement will continue that good work,” Cameron said.