Stars ready for Twenty20
Source -
nzcricket.co.nz
Blackcaps coach John Bracewell anticipates the new State Twenty20 competition will be a big hit in New Zealand.
Blackcaps coach John Bracewell anticipates the new State Twenty20 competition will be a big hit in New Zealand.
Bracewell was involved in the world’s first national Twenty20 competition in England and recalls the impact it had there.
He told nzcricket.co.nz: “I was delighted with my experience with Gloucestershire. It’s the perfect family game. As a cricket spectacle, it was very entertaining.”
Bracewell also coached the Blackcaps in the world’s first Twenty20 international, against Australia at Eden Park.
One of the stars of that game was Blackcaps’ batsman Hamish Marshall (pictured).
He said: “I think it’s a great concept. It offers the public a short and sharp version of the game, but it remains enjoyable and entertaining for the crowd and the players.
“I remember last year at Eden Park. It was a great time, with the beige and all the facial hair. I’m really looking forward to it, the fans and the players got into what it’s all about.”
State Canterbury Wizards captain and One-Day International legend Chris Harris was also an eager exponent of the new format.
Harris, who leads out the Wizards against State Otago Volts in the first game at Hagley Oval, said: “It’s great entertainment for the supporters and very exciting for the players.
“It allows the guys to practice skills that will be very useful in the later stages of one-day cricket and is a great spin-off from the one-day game.”
State Wellington Firebirds kick off their State Twenty20 campaign against State Northern Knights at the Basin Reserve on Friday.
Firebirds captain Matthew Bell said: “It’s a fantastic concept. It’s exciting for the players as well as spectators.
“It’s going to take off and speed up the game. It’s packed with action and always frenetic.”
Ticket details for the games are available from the host Major Associations.
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