International cricket to return to Queenstown this year

International cricket will be back in Queenstown this summer, with teams from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka scheduled to play at the "most beautiful ground in the world".

New Zealand Cricket has announced two T20 matches will be played at the Queenstown Events Centre’s John Davies Oval.

The White Ferns will play Bangladesh on Wednesday, December 7, and the Black Caps will play Sri Lanka on Saturday, April 8, during the long Easter weekend.

Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Jim Boult says it will be good to see the return of international cricket to Queenstown next season.

“These two international matches will be great for the district’s cricket lovers and will also go some way to help local businesses and tourism operators continue their recovery from a difficult couple of years.

“Cricket is fantastic to watch at John Davies Oval which, set against the stunning backdrop of the Remarkables, might just be the most beautiful ground in the world.

The district is looking forward to hosting the teams as well as supporters, he says.

New Zealand Cricket boss David White says there's plenty of international competition on Kiwi shores, which means cricket fans can look forward to a summer of top-quality cricket.

Tickets are on sale, priced at last year's discounted levels, he says.
 
“We recognise the challenges of the current environment – and our priority is to make international cricket as accessible as possible.
 
“After the previous seasons’ restrictions from Covid, we want to ensure our venues and fixtures remain affordable and welcoming.”

Tickets for both matches are available for purchase here.