I don't know how the process works in SA but don't the grounds bid for the right to host the match? That's certainly how it works here. If the ECB scheduled a Test match Monday to Friday, grounds either wouldn't bid or would otherwise bid lower amounts because they know they won't recoup the price on ticket and beer sales. You'd be shooting yourself in the foot!

Yeah the crowds for the Australia series have been disappointing. There's some really good test cricket being played by 2 fiercely competitive teams and hardly anyone there to see it!