Media Release

Friday, 7 November 2014

Playing on Eden Park is special, no matter what the occasion, says Mondiale Auckland Aces captain Rob Nicol.

Having represented New Zealand in all formats and played over 100 first class games for Auckland and Canterbury Nicol knows a thing or two about the big stage.

He says having a vocal and supportive crowd behind a team is hugely important and a real bonus to any side, and he’s hoping fans will turn out at Eden Park 14-16 November for the Mondiale Aces home games of the Georgie Pie Super Smash.

“We want a good crowd behind us at Eden Park. We know it’s a big venue, but that’s part of the attraction. The Mondiale Aces are a good team, we’ve got top New Zealand fast bowlers like Mitch (McClenaghan) and the experience of Kyle (Mills) as well one of the best short version batsman in New Zealand in Martin Guptill. Our other Blackcap Colin Munro is a top allrounder and there’s plenty more talent throughout the team in both departments.”

Nicol is hoping the added entertainment around the ground and multiple games over the weekend will entice spectators, particularly families to Eden Park, with the new format something which could work well, even in a busy city such as Auckland.

“There’s a lot of competition for the entertainment dollar these days, but twenty20 cricket is something which the whole family can enjoy. It’s short, sharp, fun and is played at a high level too. I think the Mondiale Aces will put on a display which will make crowds sit up and take notice.”

“It’s also great what Auckland Cricket is trying to do to make the weekend really viable for families and making sure there’s plenty to see and do in between games as well.”

The Georgie Pie Super Smash is six festival weekends at venues with lights, featuring a Friday night match, and double headers on Saturdays and Sundays for a full day's entertainment.

Friday 14 November features the Mondiale Aces against the Wellington Firebirds at 7.10pm. The Wellington Firebirds have a heap of former internationals such as James Franklin, Jeetan Patel and Grant Elliot.

Saturday has the Mondiale Aces up against the Central Stags at 3.40pm followed by Northern Districts (likely to feature the legendary Daniel Vettori) playing the Wellington Firebirds at 7pm.

Sunday 16th November commences with Central and Wellington at 12.50pm and the Mondiale Aces clashing with Northern at 4.10pm.

There’s a move for improved at-ground entertainment including a bigger kids areas, the Zing stumps, trade show elements, as well as new food and beverage options. There'll also be hundred of kids Aces t-shirts to be won over the course of the weekend.

Tickets are only $10, with kids under 16 free.

ENDS

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