Spectators will have to contend with scorchers and heat both on and off the pitch for Saturday’s Big Bash League final.
The clash between home side the Perth Scorchers, going for their second consecutive title and fifth overall, against the Brisbane Heat will be played in temperatures nudging 40C at Optus Stadium.
Perth is currently in the grips of a night-time heatwave, with daytime temperatures in the mid-to-high 30s, but only dropping down to around 23C overnight Thursday through Sunday.
The Perth Scorchers will take on the Brisbane Heat in temperatures that reflect those team names in the BBL final on Saturday. Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images.
It means daytime top temps have been dragging well into the evening, giving little reprieve despite the game starting at a later 4:30pm.
It’s prompted a warning from the Bureau of Meteorology, taking to their official Twitter account to urge those heading to the game on Saturday to check out advice on dealing with the heat from WA Health.
With temperatures pushing 40°C in #Perth tomorrow, those heading to the #BBL12 Final should check in with @WAHealth for some tips on how to beat the [email protected]@[email protected]@dfes_wapic.twitter.com/ahOFDJsAXR
— Bureau of Meteorology, Western Australia (@BOM_WA) February 3, 2023
According to the WA Department of Health’s advice website, Healthy WA, fans heading to the game should stick to shady parts of Optus Stadium, drink cool fluids, but avoid alcohol.
While the state’s Department of Fire and Emergency Services has also used the opportunity on social media to have some fun, while also reminding people to keep up to date with their bushfire plans.
We’re in for a scorcher this weekend, WA. Our umpires at @BOM_WA have forecast increased temps and blustery breezes across much of the field, making for dangerous playing conditions. ðŸDon’t have a bushfire plan? That’s just not cricket: https://t.co/ESjvusamgI#GoScorcherspic.twitter.com/SbHwR2XSP7
— DFES (@dfes_wa) February 3, 2023
To help beat the heat as they try and beat The Heat, the Scorchers will be offering some 5000 free icy poles to fans outside Optus Stadium ahead of the sold-out game.
“Playing in back to back finals is very exciting. We’re prepared, we’ve put in the work and deserve to be here. I can’t wait to play in Perth for the best fans in the country.” – Ashton Turner. Photo by Will Russell/Getty Images.
In a statement on their website, the Scorchers are also encouraging attendees to be sun smart.
“To beat the heat fans are urged to arrive early to avoid queues and bring a refillable water bottle … bring a hat and make use of free sunscreen available throughout Optus Stadium.”
Scorcher’s captain Ashton Turner and Heat skipper Jimmy Peirson fronted the media on Friday for a final conference ahead of the game.
“Playing in back to back finals is very exciting. We’re prepared, we’ve put in the work and deserve to be here. I can’t wait to play in Perth for the best fans in the country,” said Turner.
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