THE CONTROVERSIAL Gabba centre-wicket area looks like remaining, despite the push from the Brisbane Lions to have it replaced with a drop-in pitch.

The Herald Sun reported on Saturday that Queensland MP Judy Spence has said: "There will never be a drop-in wicket at the Gabba so long as I am Sport Minister."

The Lions have led the charge against the wicket area, with coach Leigh Matthews calling it a 'lawsuit' waiting to happen, while skipper Jonathan Brown said it was like playing on concrete.

Spence said the relative lack of football at the venue had counted against the concept of switching to a wicket prepared away from the arena.

"While I acknowledge some players and Lions coach Leigh Matthews have been calling for a drop-in wicket, it needs to be recognised the Gabba is a multi-use venue," she said.

"Unlike the MCG, which has around 48 AFL games scheduled over a season, the Gabba has generally only 11 home-and-away games. Cricket is played at the Gabba more than 30 days a season.

"The Gabba has a reputation as one of the best cricket grounds in the world. This reputation in large part comes from the characteristics of its wicket."

Lions chairman Tony Kelly said he was disappointed with the minister's decision.

"It (the Gabba wicket block) is unsuitable for AFL football and we will continue to act in the best interests of the players," he said.