Whangarei's Cobham Oval has been given the stamp of approval in cricketing circles.
Both Pakistan and the NZ XI were positive about the ground and its facilities following their three-day match, allowing Northland Cricket Association chief executive Gary Bell to breathe a sigh of relief.
"We are very, very happy with how
things have gone - with the weather staying fine and the ground coming through with flying colours," he said.
The wicket produced a lot of runs from both sides, with players using the opportunity to have a good bat ahead of the first test in Hamilton.
"The outfield was in good nick, along with the practice pitch facilities.
"It was the full package. We feel we have done Northland proud hosting this international side," Bell said.
Pakistan is the first international men's side Northland has hosted since 1994, when the touring West Indies visited Whangarei and played at the old Cobham Oval ground.
The recent Oval upgrades - of adding extra practice strips and the Bellahomes Players' Pavilion to provide separate changing facilities for teams - were put to use by the players, while the crowd enjoyed the extra terraced seating.
Nearly 3000 people came to watch the match over the three days, Bell said.
Pakistan manager Intikhab Alam praised the venue, while the likes of Dan Vettori and Brendon McCullum were given an understanding of the ground, Bell said.
"That certainly won't hinder our progress of getting further internationals here."
There are enough practice facilities, temporary seating is available and possible widening of the sightscreens is the only likely addition.
"We feel we've now ticked the boxes we need to," Bell said.
"We want to get the ground to international status and definitely have it ready for the 2015 World Cup in New Zealand, with a view to hosting a team, possibly warm-up games and maybe a pool game."
