24 Feb 2015

Student charged over pitch invasion

10:21 am on 24 February 2015

A Canterbury student has been charged with invading the pitch during a Cricket World Cup match at Hagley Oval yesterday.

The final of three ICC Cricket World Cup matches held at Hagley Park.

The final of three ICC Cricket World Cup matches held at Hagley Park. Photo: SUPPLIED

The 21-year-old will appear in court next week charged under the Major Events Management Act, legislation enacted before the Rugby World Cup in 2011.

Inspector Bryan Buck said that pitch invasions at sporting events would not be tolerated by the police.

"While some may think pitch invasions are funny, they are offensive to many communities in New Zealand and overseas."

The penalty for a conviction can be a fine of up to $5000 or imprisonment of up to three months.