Share

Record crowds expected for Newlands Test

Cape Town –  The record for attendance of a Test at Newlands is under threat, as the third Test between South Africa and England is set to lure more than the 80 000 that went through the turnstiles in the millennium international between the Proteas and the visitors from the United Kingdom.

But die-hard fans should not abandon hope, as temporary stands that will accommodate 2000 additional spectators for each day of the Test in the Mother City from January 2-6, will be available for the contest.

“Tickets will go on sale from December 7 and will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis from Newlands Cricket Ground only,” said Nabeal Dien, Chief Executive Officer of the Western Province Cricket Association. The ticket offices will open at 09:00.

South Africa is currently at the summit of the international test rankings, while England produced a stunning series of performances against Australia and coasted to their fourth consecutive Ashes-series victory on home soil in 2015.

“In the series in 2000, we had a record crowd at Newlands when England visited us, but right now, we might just improve on that attendance figures of 80 000. The first two days of the Test at Newlands is sold out, and the third day almost at the same stage. That is why we pursued the temporary stands as a means to provide fans of both teams the opportunity to attend,” Dien said.

Altaaf Kazi, head of media and communication at Cricket South Africa, said 166 141 Test tickets have been sold at present, while 35 887 fans have confirmed their attendance for the T20-series and 24 081 One Day International tickets were purchased in the highly anticipated clashes between two of the world’s heavyweights.

The first of four Tests will be played at Kingsmead. Five One Day International- and two T20-clashes are also scheduled.

South Africa has won 11 of their last 16 Tests at Newlands, an indication that this iconic international venue has become a fortress for the hosts.

Jacques Kallis has been the most prolific with the blade in white uniform, blasting 2181 runs at an average of 72.70, while Dale Steyn has nipped out 65 batsmen in 13 Tests.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE