Cricket: Ticket sales for third test soar

Steve Smith hit 67 for New South Wales against South Africa yesterday, using the controversial pink ball. Photo / Getty Images

Forget the rumblings from the other side of the Tasman over the suitability of the pink ball - ticket sales for the third test in Adelaide are rocketing.

The test, starting on November 27, is shaping as a high point from a spectator perspective in what many Australians rate a lean home international summer, with New Zealand's three-test rubber followed by the lacklustre West Indians.

South Australian Cricket Association chief executive Keith Bradshaw, a strong pink ball proponent, is delighted by pre-match sales.

"We can say that ticket sales for the day-night test have been very strong. Pre-sales are matching the Ashes takeup," Bradshaw said.

"Interstate and international visitors represent 65 percent of the total tickets sold to date."

The majority of those have come from Victoria, New South Wales and New Zealand.

Amid the grumblings from various Australian points, including players and the Australian Cricketers Association, test skipper Steve Smith has given it an endorsement.

Smith hit 67 for New South Wales against South Australia in their Sheffield Shield day-night game in Adelaide yesterday, which featured pink balls.

"The wicket held together quite well and better than the abrasive surface against New Zealand in Canberra (last week), so that is a good sign. The seam was harder to see but I thought it played quite well," Smith said.

He also cited the increased ticket sales for the test and noted 1000 turned up for yesterday's play in Adelaide, "which is the most I have seen in a long time. That's the start, and I am sure test cricket will be no different," he added.

The carry, bounce and visibility of the pink ball was given an endorsement by both players and spectators yesterday.

"We have always said that a day/night test will make this form of the game more accessible for members and fans," Bradshaw said.

"So far, strong ticket sales are reflecting this and we expect some fantastic crowds at Adelaide Oval across the five days."