The W.A.C.A as it is known (Western Australian Cricket Association) has a fearsome reputation for producing some of the fastest and bounciest tracks in the world. Just ask Alex Tudor! Although this has flattened out over recent years it still has batsmen quaking in their boots and provides enthralling entertainment. These characteristics along with the afternoon sea breezes which regularly pass through the ground have made it an attractive proposition for both pace and swing bowlers. 
Although first used in 1890, geographical factors limited the amount of Test cricket played here. Situated on the West Coast of Australia, Perth is the most isolated city in the world. The long trip from the East coast was eased by the introduction of railway, but this still took several days. It was only until commercial jet planes and scheduled flights enabled Perth to become truly accessible and as a result hosted its first test in 1970-71. To celebrate this occasion the Inverarity Stand (which still exists next to the main public entrance) was built. In 1984, the Prindiville stand was established before the iconic 230ft high light towers were erected to in 1986 to accommodate night matches. One year later the Lillee-Marsh stand was built for public seating.
In 2002 the ground saw changes to its dimensions, and it was reduced in size to make the venue more suitable for cricket as opposed to Aussie Rules. Initiatives included building a new grandstand and players' pavilion as well as replacing seats with grass banks on each side. As a result the capacity of the stadium is now 22,000. When we first came here in 94, under the scoreboard was the place to be but since (where that area is now alcohol free) we have moved to behind the bowlers' arms where there is no such ban!
You have to go back to 1978/9 for the last time England won here. England does not traditionally cope well with the extra pace and bounce in the wicket. On that occasion the winning margin was 166 runs. How we would dearly love a repeat of that this tour. The 2002/3 series saw one of the paciest wickets at Perth for years where batting presented unique challenges. When a wicket such as this is produced, it bears no relation to any other in the world. Throw in the fastest bowler in the world and you have a real Test. Robert Key performed well but it was the image of Alex Tudor being stretched off after a nasty blow to the head that will live long in the memory.
Situated on the south western tip of Australia, Perth is distinguished by beautiful beaches, great golf courses, vibrant markets and urban parklands. A large ex pat community ensures that travelling fans are well supported at the WACA, which is close to the town centre and is within walking distance although buses are taxis are easier and quicker.
1st Vodafone Ashes Test Brisbane
2nd Vodafone Ashes Test Adelaide
