26 Dec 2014

Boxing Day Test sells out

12:29 pm on 26 December 2014

The first day of the Boxing Day cricket Test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at Christchurch's Hagley Oval is a sell-out.

The last tickets for day one of the Test were purchased on Monday, guaranteeing a capacity crowd of about 8,000 for the country's newest international venue.

Hagley Oval

Hagley Oval Photo: PHOTOSPORT

New Zealand Cricket's GM Commercial James Wear puts the strong demand down to a combination of the Black Caps' good recent form, the chance to witness international cricket returning to Christchurch for the first time since the 2011 earthquake - and an encouraging weather-forecast.

Wear says organisers have worked tirelessly to cover all eventualities at Hagley Oval, but points out the Test will be the first major event at the venue since its completion.

"This is another major step in the evolution of the ground and, while we envisage everything running smoothly, I'd ask that patrons bear with us as we navigate what should be a very memorable day."

It's the first Boxing Day Test in New Zealand for 11 years.

Hagley Oval will become New Zealand's eighth Test venue.