Dwindling crowd support has prompted Bay cricket authorities to introduce a BYO alcohol trial at one-day cricket fixtures in Mount Maunganui this summer.
Northern Districts cricket and Bay of Plenty Cricket Trust have agreed to the bring-your-own booze trial for the Ford Trophy one-day matches in a desperate bid to boost attendances.
Northern Districts chief executive Peter Roach told the Bay of Plenty Times the decision was made this week in response to dwindling crowd numbers. It was hoped the BYO trial would keep people involved "and loving live sport", he said.
"Some feedback is that the cost of not just taking yourself but your family has become a bit pricey - by the time you pay for parking, ticket prices and food and drinks at the grounds," Mr Roach said.
From the first match between the Northern Knights and Wellington Firebirds on January 1, people will be able to bring a maximum of 12 cans or plastic bottles to each game plus soft drink and food.