Tauranga's Fiona Wilson (pictured) and Paul Smith are representing New Zealand against Australia at Mount Maunganui this week. Photo / File
The first international test match between New Zealand's Mat Blacks and Australia to be staged in the Western Bay will be held at the Mount Sports Centre from Thursday to Saturday.
The decision to bring the international here is the culmination of years of effort by a hard working team
of volunteers and administrators. The 28 best Australasian bowlers will be involved in the seven-strong men's and women's teams in singles, pairs, triples and fours over the three days.
Former New Zealand title holder Keith Setter is part of the management committee hosting the series. He has been involved in the sport for 35 years and says this is a massive opportunity for the sport in the Bay of Plenty.
"Our goal is to provide the best tournament in the history of the test matches between Australia and New Zealand," Setter said. "We have involved a lot of local businesses to get on board as sponsors ... " Mayor Stuart Crosby is holding a mayoral reception on Thursday morning at 8.30am.
Setter says having Tauranga players Fiona Wilson and Paul Smith in the Mat Blacks is great news for the local association.
