The WACA Ground is set to open a new chapter next month, with the completion of a major redevelopment that reshapes the historic East Perth venue into a boutique sporting and community hub while preserving its rich cricketing legacy.

The WACA Ground Improvement Project delivers a modernised precinct that balances heritage with contemporary design, reinforcing the venue’s place in Western Australia’s sporting landscape.

At the heart of the redevelopment are three key features, the Prindiville Building, the reinstated John Inverarity Stand, and the Wally Edwards Function Centre, each honouring significant figures in WA cricket history while providing upgraded facilities for players, members and the broader community.

The new Prindiville Building now houses WA Cricket’s administration offices and carries forward the name of former Western Australian Cricket Association President Bernie Prindiville. The original Prindiville Stand, opened in 1984 as part of the Ground’s centenary redevelopment, had long served as the administrative base for WA Cricket.

Prindiville played a pivotal role in fundraising for Perth’s first Test match in 1970 and in driving earlier redevelopment works at the Ground. Retaining the name ensures his contribution remains embedded in the venue’s story.

At the northern end of the Ground, the John Inverarity Stand has been reinstated in a pitch-facing position, restoring a key element of the WACA’s identity. Originally built in 1970 for Perth’s first men’s Test match and later renamed in 1985 in honour of former Western Australian captain John Inverarity, the stand remains a defining feature. Bowlers will once again run in from either the Inverarity End or the Lillee-Marsh End, preserving traditions familiar to generations of cricket fans.

Completing the trio is the Wally Edwards Function Centre, a premium multi-purpose space designed to expand the WACA’s role beyond matchdays. Named after former Test cricketer and long-serving Cricket Australia director Wally Edwards, the centre acknowledges his work in strengthening governance and grassroots pathways in Western Australian cricket. The facility will host matchday hospitality, corporate events, community gatherings and functions, enhancing the Ground’s versatility.

The redevelopment also includes the reinstatement of the historic Farley Stand name at the south-western end of the Ground. First opened in 1931 and named after former WACA President and Secretary W.J. Farley, the original structure was demolished in 2002, but its name has now returned as part of the venue’s refreshed identity.

Additional changes include the renumbering of entry gates, beginning with Gate 1 at the new Prindiville Building entrance and proceeding anticlockwise around the Ground, creating a clearer and more cohesive arrival experience for patrons.

WA Cricket CEO John Stephenson described the transformation as both a celebration of heritage and a step into the future, saying the venue has always been more than just a cricket ground. He noted the redevelopment preserves the Ground’s intimate character while delivering facilities that meet modern expectations for sport and events.

WA Minister for Sport and Recreation Rita Saffioti said the project strengthens the legacy of the WACA while ensuring it remains fit for purpose for future generations. She highlighted the reinstatement of historic names such as Prindiville, Inverarity and Farley, alongside recognition of Wally Edwards, as a reflection of the individuals who shaped cricket in Western Australia.

The transformation has been delivered through the $1.7 billion Perth City Deal, jointly funded by the WA Government, Australian Government and City of Perth, in collaboration with WA Cricket and Cricket Australia, with additional support from Lotterywest.

The redeveloped ground will host a women's Test Match between Australia and India commencing on March 6, serving as the official opening of the reborn facility.

When the redeveloped WACA Ground opens to the public next month, it will do so as a venue that honours its past while embracing a broader future, serving not only elite cricket but also community sport, events and gatherings in the heart of East Perth.