A British man probably ''tainted'' the Cricket World Cup for many by streaking at its opening match, a Queenstown judge says.
Joseph Brook (22) was convicted in the Queenstown District Court yesterday morning of invading the pitch of a major sporting event and was remanded on bail for sentence.
Brook ran on to Hagley Oval, Christchurch, at the end of the CWC opener between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on Valentine's Day.
Judge Michael Turner regarded the offence as exhibitionism and a deliberate act of self-promotion.
''This tainted, no doubt, for many people, the experience of what was an historic sporting event in New Zealand,'' Judge Turner said.
He said principles of denunciation and deterrent would be paramount when sentencing.
''If that calls for a loss of liberty for Mr Brook, then so be it, but that's for the judge on the day.''
Judge Turner convicted and remanded Brook until August 20. He directed that a presentence report be prepared, addressing community detention. Brook is in New Zealand on a working holiday visa.
Prosecuting Sergeant Ian Collin said Brook had run on to the pitch naked at 6.50pm and had to be tackled by security guards.
The match was attended by about 15,000 people and was broadcast to an international audience of millions.
Sgt Collin said: ''There were a number of families and children at the event who witnessed the defendant's behaviour. As the defendant ran on to the pitch, he was fully exposed and made no attempt to cover himself or his genitals. When spoken to by police, the defendant admitted his actions and said it was one of those once-in-a-lifetime things to do.''
The offence carries a maximum penalty of three months' imprisonment or a $5000 fine.
