Only lite relief for thirsty cricket fans

Cricket fans will have to make do with low-alcohol beer on the terraces after a major policy rethink by Eden Park management.

Officials have decided to rename the terraces as the "Lite Zone" and sell only low-alcohol drinks at the Black Caps' one-day international against the West Indies.

And while it is said to be only a one-off at this stage, fans who spoke to the Herald said the majority were being punished for the behaviour of "a few idiots".

The move comes after crowd trouble during the one-dayer against Australia last December, which saw pitch invasions and objects thrown at players.

Eden Park chief executive John Alexander said they had a debrief after that game with their caterers, New Zealand Cricket and the police, and that all groups were concerned about the behaviour on the terraces.

And fans who leave during the day will have to buy another ticket for the terraces.

Cricket supporters group the Beige Brigade said the decision would keep some fans away while others would drink more before the game or go to extreme lengths to sneak liquor in.

"It's an over-reaction that will hack off the majority of people because of the behaviour of a few idiots," said brigade co-founder Paul Ford.

There were four ground invasions at Eden Park during the December game against Australia.

The scenes became so bad that Australian captain Ricky Ponting spoke out over his concern for the safety of teammates Brett Lee and Brad Hogg after both had fruit and plastic bottles thrown at them.

"It spoils the game, ruins the game of cricket," said Ponting at the time.

"We're not happy if the players are in some sort of position to get hurt."