International cricket returns to Nelson’s Saxton Oval

International cricket returns to Nelson this summer, with the Black Caps taking on Sri Lanka in the third one-day international of the series at Saxton Oval, on Tuesday 8 January 2019.

The venue, which hosted teams from Pakistan and West Indies last summer, is set to see some exciting cricket, with the match potentially doubling as the ODI series decider.

The Sri Lankan cricket team will bring some good form to New Zealand in December, after beating South Africa in a recent test series and will play New Zealand in two tests, three ODIs and a one-off T20.
 
"The international match is an excellent opportunity to promote the Nelson region on the world stage," Nelson Mayor Rachel Reese said.
 
“Nelson is proud to host the Blackcaps and Sri Lanka and welcome the many visitors to our city and region."
Saxton Oval has established itself as an international venue over the previous five years, as a perfect summer holiday venue.
 
“Nelson Cricket in partnership with Nelson City Council is very excited to be again hosting the Black Caps in a One Day International on the 8th January,” Nelson Cricket Association General Manager David Leonard said.
 
“It is fantastic that locals and visitors to the region get the opportunity to see the Black Caps live at one of the best boutique cricket venues in the country.”
 
The Black Caps will also take on India and Bangladesh, while the White Ferns play India in the 2018-19 international schedule fixtures announced.