Cricket World Cup Countdown Nears End

Dunedin (Thursday, 12 February 2015) – Dunedin's ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 countdown is all but over, with the final touches being put to preparations for the city's part in hosting the tournament.

On Tuesday 17 February the University of Otago Oval will host the first of three scheduled matches when the Black Caps take on Scotland, but before that happens all eyes will be on the Octagon this Sunday 15 February when Dunedin extends Céad míle fáilte (a hundred thousand welcomes) to the Scottish team.

Mayor Dave Cull says he can sense the excitement around the city as Dunedin prepares for what is a truly international event.

"The anticipation for the ICC Cricket World Cup has been building over the past year. Every month it has gone up a notch or two and now that we are just a few days away from the first ball being bowled, the level of interest has become intense.

"I think we are seeing a really special Dunedin atmosphere develop around this event. I know the city and its people do everything they can to make both visiting players and supporters feel welcome - plus there will be the added thrill for local fans to be able to see the Black Caps play a World Cup match."

DCC Events Special Projects Co-ordinator Tammy Jackman says a huge amount of work has been put into Dunedin's hosting of the event by a large number of people.

"I think everyone involved is looking forward to Sunday's welcome for the Scottish team because that will, in many ways, mark the official beginning of the event for Dunedin. And given the city's rich Caledonian heritage I am looking forward to seeing them made feel right at home."

The event will run from 3pm to 4.30pm on Sunday in the upper Octagon and will feature cultural performances, face painting, food stalls and entertainment, as well as an opportunity to meet members of the Scottish Cricket team ahead of Tuesday's sold out match.

Dunedin's other two pool matches are Sri Lanka v Afghanistan on 22 February and Scotland v Afghanistan on 26 February. Welcoming celebrations are also planned for those teams involving members of the local Sri Lankan and Afghan communities.

The 11th ICC Cricket World Cup is being hosted by New Zealand and Australia from 14 February to 29 March. Dunedin is one of seven New Zealand cities which will host matches.

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