Christchurch's journey back to a host city for top-level cricket will take another significant step early next year when the Hagley Oval will hosts its first international match during the World Cup Qualifiers.
The city has not hosted a major event since the devastating earthquake in February 2011. Severe damage was caused to the AMI Stadium and planning permission has now been granted for a new international cricket venue at Hagley Oval. It is due to host the opening game of the World Cup when New Zealand play Sri Lanka on February 14, 2015.
The Qualifers, which will be played across six venues on New Zealand's north and south islands, will provide a dress rehearsal for the city's readiness for the main event in 15 months' time. The Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, just outside Christchurch, will also host the final.
Group A for the tournament consists of United Arab Emirates, Scotland, Canada, Hong Kong and Nepal, while group B includes Netherlands, Kenya, Namibia, Papua New Guinea and Uganda. The two finalists will take the last remaining spots in the World Cup draw. Ireland and Afghanistan have already qualified.
There will be free entry to all the matches during the Qualifiers, which run from January 13 to February 1.
Christchurch comeback continues
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Christchurch comeback continues
