Why is there curfew time for matches at Manuka Oval in Canberra?

By Vikas Singh Derek

Vikas Singh Derek has a Master's in Journalism and has written more than 50,000 articles. He currently works as a cricket content writer at Khel Now.

Published at :December 28, 2025 at 3:27 PM

Modified at :December 28, 2025 at 3:27 PM

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - DECEMBER 22: Sam Konstas of the Thunder and Matthew Gilkes of the Thunder run out to bat during the BBL match between Sydney Thunder and Brisbane Heat at Manuka Oval, on December 22, 2025, in Canberra, Australia (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

(Courtesy : Getty Images)

Manuka Oval Stadium is one of the venues in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26.

Manuka Oval is one of the most popular cricket stadiums in Australia, which is located in the national capital Canberra. The stadium was opened in 1929 and has a capacity of over 13,000 spectators. It also hosts international matches of Australian Cricket Team with latest one being the opening T20I of the five-match series against India in October.

Manuka Oval is one of the venues of the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26, and will host key matches of the tournament. Cricket matches often observes large crowd at the stadium, with stands getting packed with spectators.

However, the stadium has a curfew time of 11 PM for cricket events, which often makes it challenging for organisers to conduct matches at the venue. Moreover, floodlights are not allowed at the stadium after 11 PM; hence, the games have to be completed before this deadline.

Why Manuka Oval has a curfew time of 11 PM?

Why is there curfew time for matches at Manuka Oval in Canberra? — CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – DECEMBER 28: A general view of play during the BBL match between Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder at Manuka Oval, on December 28, 2025, in Canberra, Australia (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)

The Manuka Oval in Canberra has a strict floodlight curfew time of 11 PM as the stadium is located near residential areas. The rule is in place to prevent late-night noise and light from disrupting nearby residents.

Notably, there are no such restrictions in the entire Canberra city and the rule is in place only near the Manuka Oval’s location. Therefore, all the floodlights at the venue should be turned off by the authorities after 11 PM due to the curfew.

Due to this rule, match officials are often forced to shorten overs when the matches are affected by rain. Moreover, they are also forced to call off matches when the finish time gets too close to the 11 PM deadline after getting delayed.

In the past, the management has tried to amend the noise and light restrictions rule at the venue to allow flexibility with event timings. However, the rule remains in place, with local residents supporting the curfew and expressing their concerns regarding late-night disruptions.

Where is Manuka Oval stadium located?

Manuka Oval Stadium is located in Australia’s capital Canberra.

What is the curfew time for floodlights at Manuka Stadium in Canberra?

The curfew time for floodlights at Manuka Oval Stadium is 11 PM.

How many games of BBL 2025-26 will be hosted at Manuka Oval?

Two matches of BBL 2025-26 will be conducted in Canberra.

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Vikas Singh Derek

Vikas Singh Derek is a core cricket-lover since childhood and has always followed the sport both in his personal and professional life. He started his school life by watching cricket at home with family. Later, he played cricket on the field at local clubs during college. After his Master's in Journalism from Mumbai, he followed his passion by covering cricket news across various digital media. Since 2015, he has been an aspiring sports journalist and cricket content writer with over 50K+ articles.