National capital will host a the Big Bash for the first time since the BBL|04 final when Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Renegades visit
Big Bash Thunders into Canberra
Canberra will become the 10th city to host a Big Bash League (BBL) match with the Sydney Thunder set to host the Melbourne Renegades at Manuka Oval.
The Thunder confirmed the January 24 fixture on Friday as part of this summer's extended BBL competition, which sees each team host five "home" games.
As a part of the 43-game competition, the Renegades will take a game to Geelong, Adelaide to Alice Springs and Hobart to Launceston, in addition to regular clashes in the six capitals.
It comes ahead of the possible expansion of the league into regional centres in coming years.
The game in Canberra will be the competition's first visit to the nation's capital since the 2014-15 final.
"This is designed to drive cricket's strategy to ultimately continue to be Australia's favourite sport and a sport for all Australians," Cricket Australia events and leagues manager Anthony Everard said.
"A club-by-club approach has been taken to determine the most appropriate location to host this additional fixture, taking into account aspects including existing contractual obligations, participation and fan growth opportunities, and venue infrastructure."