Cricket: Smiles over Aussie series

Auckland cricket buffs have been quick to register their interest in the one-day series between New Zealand and Australia.

Not only is Eden Park preparing for a bumper crowd in the the country's inaugural Twenty20 international on Thursday, but all the signs are pointing to a sellout for the third one-day international on February 26.

New Zealand Cricket marketing manager Peter Dwan confirmed yesterday that more than 10,000 tickets had been pre-sold for Thursday's 20-over shootout, the first match of its type between two fully-fledged ODI teams.

With the Twenty20 concept attracting record crowds in England, South Africa and Australia, Dwan said the showdown was expected to be heavily supported, with a probable crowd of 20,000-plus.

But even more appealing for Dwan was that 15,000 tickets had already been pre-sold for the third ODI, meaning the February 26 encounter would almost certainly be sold out.

Eden Park's capacity for cricket matches is close to 35,000, smaller than the number squeezed in for rugby fixtures due to the sightscreens, the more spread-out nature of terrace patrons, and the lack of the extra seating in front of the North Stand.

Dawn said the smaller venues such as Napier's McLean Park and Wellington's Basin Reserve would also be sold out, leaving viewing opportunities only at the Cake Tin (Saturday) and at Christchurch's Jade Stadium next Tuesday.

His only concern about Thursday's match was that large numbers of spectators would arrive close to the 7pm start time and put pressure on the gate.