(Reuters) – New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced that they are anticipating large crowds for the upcoming tests against England in Christchurch, Wellington, and Hamilton in November and December. NZC chief executive Scott Weenink expressed confidence that these matches would draw similar attendance numbers to the successful home tests against Australia earlier in the year.
Historically, there has been discussion in New Zealand about the popularity of test cricket not translating into ticket sales or viewership. However, Weenink noted a shift in recent years where interest in the sport has resulted in increased viewership and strong attendance figures.
The first test is scheduled to take place at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval starting on Nov. 28, followed by the second test at the Basin Reserve in Wellington from Dec. 6-10. The series will conclude with the third test at Hamilton’s Seddon Park from Dec. 14-18.
These matches are part of the World Test Championship, which New Zealand claimed victory in during its inaugural edition. Currently, New Zealand ranks third in the standings while England sits in ninth and last place.
(Reporting by Nick Mulvenney, editing by Peter Rutherford)
