Australia will host a two-test series against Bangladesh in August, with the opening Test on August 13 in Darwin and the second Test from August 22-26 in Mackay, Queensland.

Darwin marks the site of the first Test since 2004, signaling a notable return of Test cricket to northern Australia.

These will be Australia’s first Tests since their 4-1 Ashes win over England earlier in the year, a period of strong form with some key players absent.

Australia sits atop the World Test Championship standings and aims to extend its lead by whitewashing Bangladesh in the two-match series.

The Bangladesh series is part of the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, with Australia holding a comfortable lead after seven wins in eight matches.

Marrara Stadium and Great Barrier Reef Arena have been highlighted as outstanding venues for international cricket in recent seasons.

Touring Australia remains challenging for Asian teams due to conditions different from home venues, a historical factor in performance.

Cricket Australia CEO emphasized the crowded international calendar and August as a prime window to bring Test cricket to northern Australia with high-quality facilities.

The return of Tests to northern Australia is framed as a strategic opportunity amid a busy schedule.

Mackay’s venue has hosted several ODIs and youth/Test matches, reinforcing the city’s growing role in Australia’s Test-hosting circuit.

The announcement consolidates Mackay’s place in Australia’s Test footprint and expands the geographic spread of Tests within the country.

Cricket Australia confirmed Mackay and Darwin as the August venues after months of speculation.