Officials to assess Canberra air quality ahead of BBL match

The air quality in Canberra will be assessed for safety ahead of tonight's BBL match between the Sydney Thunder and the Adelaide Strikers at Manuka Oval with Australia's capital shrouded in haze from the extensive New South Wales bushfires.

Conditions will be discussed an hour before play is due to begin at 5.10pm local time with a further inspection when the bat flip takes place at 5.25pm. If visibility or the air quality are too poor then the game could be called off. In such a scenario the points would be shared as in a rained-off game.

"The safety of players, fans and staff remains our number one priority. In accordance with relevant guidelines, air quality will be regularly assessed throughout the day today," the Thunder said in a statement.

"The safety of players, fans and staff remains our number one priority. In accordance with relevant guidelines, air quality will be regularly assessed throughout the day today," the Thunder said in a statement. In the event that visibility and/or air quality is deemed unsuitable for play decisions regarding the match will be made in accordance with BBL Playing Conditions."

Earlier this month the Sheffield Shield match between New South Wales and Queensland at the SCG was completed in extensive smoke haze which raised questions about player and spectator safety.

Cricket Australia does not currently have an air quality policy.

On Friday, Cricket New South Wales said that clubs should consider cancelling matches this weekend due to a combination of the smoke haze and heat.

"Either one of these weather events, that is, extreme heat or poor air quality, is reason enough for caution when considering safety and whether or not to play on Saturday. The combination of both events in many areas of NSW is extremely concerning,' Lee German, the NSW CEO said,

"We love cricket. We want to see people playing and enjoying their cricket, but our concern for player and official safety always come first. All at Cricket NSW once again send our thoughts to all those currently facing the devastating bushfires across NSW and reassure our cricket communities we will continue to be here to work with you throughout this summer and beyond."