DVML trying to make test a carnival

Terry Davies wants to change how we experience test cricket and he is drawing inspiration from the Melbourne Cup to do it.

The Dunedin Venues Management Limited chief executive is charged with delivering the first test against South Africa beginning at the University Oval on March 8 and he is excited about the company’s first foray into international cricket.

It is a match which should be very easy to sell. South Africa is a bona fide quality side, the likes of which we do not always see this far south. And the test is scheduled during a time when the students are in the city and the weather is more settled — hopefully.

"We are trying to deliver a carnival with a more party and social feel," Davies said.

Work to create the right stage for the event got under way earlier this week. A 40m platform is being erected to house marquees which will overlook the University Oval.’

A "village green" area will be set up alongside the venue which will likely suit those people who like to "watch" their cricket while nibbling on cucumber sandwiches and quaffing bubbly.

"That will be an enclosure with boutique food and wine. There will be a big screen out there playing the game and a bit of entertainment with some music going on. So it’s like a day at the races — like going to Melbourne races."

Davies hopes the extra entertainment will help draw in a wider crowd and lure more people to Dunedin.

"You will always get your die-hards and your purists come to the test match but the reality is you’ve got to add different things these days. It has to be more than what goes on in the field.

"If we are serious about economic impact and making a difference to the city, then you want to get the best possible content you can.

"So we went to New Zealand Cricket and said ‘we think we can deliver the experience of cricket in a different way’."

Davies said to break even the event needed to attract about 8000 people across the five days.

The Otago Cricket Association has managed internationals in the past but DVML got involved to lift the profile of the event and to help attract better quality fixtures.

"You always get nervous about any new event. But it is what we do well. We deliver events and we have economic impact as a core driver for us so we are out in the region promoting the fact that you’ve got to get to Dunedin."

While a Black Caps win would be nice, the goal is to deliver a quality event which will "drive pride in the city", boost the local economy and support the Otago Cricket Association in growing the game in the region.