THE Western Australian Cricket Association advises that the first day's play of the Third Orange Test between Australia and England is officially a sell out.

It is now almost certain the all-new WACA will celebrate first day with an opening day record crowd.

WACA President Mr Brian Rakich said the Association was hopeful of similar crowds throughout the ground's 30th Test.

"The WACA is absolutely delighted with the manner in which the public has embraced this Test and the occasion of launching our redeveloped ground," Mr Rakich said.

"We look forward to hosting our Members and the public with possible record crowds throughout this match."

The $12million WACA refurbishment is now expected to host a crowd in the region of 21,500 on Friday.

Perth's biggest previous first day crowd was 16,849 on December 1, 2000 when Australia played the West Indies.

The WACA has also hosted three other first day attendances of more than 16,000. All have been Ashes Test match openings.

November 28 1998, against England, 16,788
December 13, 1974, against England, 16,381
November 12, 1982, against England,  16,276

Last remaining tickets into the ground were sold late today, Wednesday.

Limited tickets to Saturday's Day 2 and Sunday, Day 3, are still available. Officials report ample premium and perimeter seats and general admission tickets are available for Days 4 and 5.

Perth's highest Test attendance remains the first Test, also against England in December 1970.

A total of 84,142 patrons attended that match over five days.

The WACA's Five Biggest overall Test attendances:

December 11-16, 1970 against England 84,142
December 13-17, 1974 against England 75,196
February 3-7, 1995, against England 71,679
December 12-16, 1975 against West Indies 66,062
November 12-17, 1982 against England 62,444

© 2002 Western Australian Cricket Association

This report does not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Cricket Board.