Published: Aug 15, 2015, 06:02 AM (IST)
Edited: Aug 15, 2015, 06:02 AM (IST)
New Zealand, a rugby mad country that recently turned its whole-hearted attention towards cricket, following their teams spectacular performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 is at the risk of losing some of those new found fans. Thanks to the non-broadcast of the first Twenty20 International (T20I) between New Zealand and South Africa in the latter’s backyard. Realising the problem, the New Zealand Cricket board has assured fans that they will discuss matters with Cricket South Africa (CSA) in attempt to provide coverage for the remaining games in the limited overs series. ALSO READ: Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers guide South Africa to 6-wicket win vs New Zealand in 1st T20I at Durban
NZC is disappointed for fans keen to watch @BLACKCAPS, to discuss broadcast situation with South Africa. More: http://t.co/N4zRFQmwDl ^MB
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) August 14, 2015
Sky Sports, the network that broadcasts cricket in the country, refused to buy rights for this particular series citing it as a non-profitable venture given that difference in time zones means the matches will be played bang in the middle of the night in New Zealand time. However, there was sever outrage among fans and that may just push the network to reconsider their decision. SCORECARD: South Africa vs New Zealand, 1st T20I at Durban
For the New Zealand fans the only concession is that the game ended in a loss for their team. Batting first New Zealand were kept to a modest total of 151 despite an amazing start by the opening pair of skipper Kane Williamson and Martin Guptill, both of whom scored 42. South Africa were able to chase down the target with six wickets and 13 balls to spare with AB de Villiers, Rilee Russouw and Hashim Amla playing key roles in the chase.
