New T20 cricket competition set for summer

SUMMER ACTION: The T20 competition has been revamped for the 2016-2017 season. PHOTO:FILE

A new holiday-friendly scheduling window, a fresh push towards family-oriented times and venues, and a change in sponsor - these are the main features of the revamped McDonald's Super Smash, coming soon to a ground near you.

The 2016-17 men's domestic T20 competition would start in early December, be played in predominantly afternoon timeslots and would be staged in some of the country's favourite holiday spots, including Central Otago, Nelson, and Mt Maunganui.

In another departure from last season's format, the finals would be played at the home venue of the highest-placed team, rather than at grounds confirmed at the outset of the competition.

New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said the McDonald's Super Smash was designed to capture the imagination and enthusiasm of kiwis as they approached and enjoyed the summer holiday season.

"There has always been a 'happy days' element to this time of the year and we think it's perfect for attracting New Zealanders of all demographics - mums, dads, teen and tweens," White said.

"The twenty-over format is all about entertainment and having fun, and we have unashamedly built the competition around that."

Of the 30 regular season games, 13 would be televised live on SKY Sport and just six were scheduled for the later, 7.10pm start.

In addition, SKY Sport will televise live both the elimination final and the grand final.

Besides the bigger city venues, the McDonald's Super Smash would also be hosted at popular holiday destinations such as Alexandra's Molyneux Park, Nelson's Saxton Oval and Mt Maunganui's Bay Oval.

Mr White said a lot of energy had been spent on creating a dynamic, modern and exciting format, tailored around meeting the demands of all New Zealanders.

"We've listened closely to what people want in terms of the domestic T20 competition and believe the new McDonald's Super Smash is ideally positioned to meet those demands."