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Naming-rights sponsor sought for the Gabba

The Queensland government has confirmed that the Brisbane Cricket Ground would continue to be known by its nickname, the Gabba, should any naming-rights deal be struck for the venue.

Reports in Australia have suggested that the state government, which owns the iconic stadium, is seeking a sponsor for the venue in order to maintain its status as one of the country’s leading cricket grounds. The government is reportedly seeking Aus$2m for the naming rights.

‘The Gabba’ would be incorporated into any new name, the government has said. “The venue will always be known as the Gabba,” a government spokesman said, according to the Australian Associated Press news agency.

“Of course, we will look at any recommendations in the Lee Report into Stadiums Queensland.”

John Lee, a sports and tourism executive, is set to make recommendations to the state government on how the Gabba can improve its financial performance. Lee is undertaking a review into Queensland’s nine government-owned venues, a process which commenced in April.

The AAP notes that the Gabba has been overlooked to host an Indian Test match this summer, something it has done since 1988, and the state government is keen to explore avenues to elevate the stadium’s standing within the cricket world.

The Queensland government also owns Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, a major rugby venue in the state.

Image: Rae Allen