McLean Park not to host the 4th ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan

McLean Park will not host the January ODI between Pakistan and New Zealand which will see the Hawke’s Bay cricket fans wait a bit longer to see the Black Caps in action. Napier City Council which owns the ground has lost the host status for the 4^th ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan, which will be confirmed when New Zealand cricket releases their home season schedule next week.

The reason behind the same is the $2 million renovation plan that the council has to improve the turf and drainage system of the ground which will start in October and stretch until the end of January.

Fiona Fraser’s statement:

“Our priority very much has to be focused on getting that turf right. With that in mind, we’ve been liaising with New Zealand Cricket about the fixtures and the decision has been made mutually that’s it’s probably best to leave that Pakistan game to one side,” said Fiona Fraser, manager communications and marketing for Napier City Council.

“We felt it was best to wait till February when we’ve got a much better shot at having everything right and ready. That’s our priority at the moment, is making sure the turf is completely top notch, and able to be played on as soon as possible without any risk.” she added.

However, McLean Park could see the 2^nd ODI of the England series in late February taking place on the ground if things go according to plan and the grounds get a nod.

An Australia ODI had to be called off at McLean Park earlier due to the waterlogged situation at the ground whereas Nelson Park, which is situated nearby was absolutely dry. It was the 3^rd occasion in four years when an ODI at McLean Park had to be abandoned due to drainage problems.

“Confidence is pretty high for the England game. We’re aiming to have the turf installed and ready to roll by the end of January, and we’re confident we’ll be ready to go by [late February],” Fraser said.

“We don’t want a repeat of the last match we had at the ground and we’ve continued to work very closely with New Zealand Cricket. We want to feel 100 per cent confident, and anyone who comes to Napier to feel 100 per cent confident too.” Concluded Fraser.