Australia's T20 cricketers enjoyed Wellington's sunny weather on Monday and they'll be hoping for more of it over the next week, with the final three games against the Blackcaps to be held at Sky Stadium.
And while the New Zealand squad are disappointed they won't be heading to Tauranga and Auckland, they are pleased that New Zealand Cricket and Cricket Australia agreed to continue the tour.
Reports surfaced on Sunday that the Aussies were considering returning home after Auckland was plunged into alert level 3, but cooler heads have prevailed and the teams will remain in the capital for the next seven days.
New batting star Devon Conway says it's a relief the series can still be decided over five games.
"It's a little bit disappointing that we can't go to Auckland or the Mount, but at the same time we are grateful that we can still play these final games," Conway says.
A statement by NZC on Monday said "logistical complications from the transfer of Friday's double-header from Auckland to Wellington" meant Sunday's game at Bay Oval was no longer feasible.
But Newshub understands the touring Aussies played a significant role in the change.
Sources have confirmed the team strongly indicated it was no longer willing to travel around New Zealand in light of the latest COVID-19 developments.
"The right decision has been made," says all-rounder Ashton Agar.
It's also understood players are especially keen to avoid any unnecessary risk of exposure that could jeopardise their lucrative Indian Premier League contract commitments, which commences next month.
Australia will now remain in Wellington for the rest of the tour before heading home on a charter flight next Monday.
"Assessing the situation with what's happening in Auckland, we are confident both NZC and Cricket Australia have made sure they look after the players mental and physical well-being," Agar says.
The series, as well as the England v White Ferns T20 series, will no conclude behind closed doors in Wellington.
