South African paceman Vernon Philander has a history of terrorising the New Zealand top order.
South African paceman Vernon Philander has a history of terrorising the New Zealand top order.
In less than a week some of the best cricketers on the planet converge on Bay Oval for the first of two historic one-day internationals.
South Africa has named a full strength side for the three-match one-day series against the Black Caps, including a host of big names like captainAB de Villiers, Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, Morne Morkel, Vernon Philander and Dale Steyn, so will pose a serious challenge despite the unfamiliar environment of Bay Oval.
Bay of Plenty Cricket chief executive Paul Read said the final preparations were being made for what should be a memorable few days of cricket in Mount Maunganui.
"The buildings are coming along ... it's a bit of a construction zone here at the moment," he said. "There's temporary tents put up for the corporate hospitality and we are still finishing off some of the terraces out the front. Then there's all the stands for the cameras and other bits and pieces going in."
Tickets are on sale on the Black Caps website and at Ticketek.
The association is also using the matches to help sell annual memberships.
The $150 Pirates Package includes four tickets (two adults, two children) to either one of the two matches against South Africa, access to preferential ticket offers, invitations to meet players and discounts from sponsorship partners.
The $660 business package includes many of the same offers but also includes increased access to restricted areas and marketing opportunities.
