New Zealand-South Africa fourth ODI moved to Hamilton

NZC shifted the match due to inadequate drainage at the original venue in Napier

WELLINGTON: New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Tuesday shifted next month's fourth ODI against South Africa to Hamilton due to inadequate drainage at the original venue in Napier.

Earlier this month, an ODI between Australia and New Zealand at McLean Park was abandoned because of a sodden outfield and NZC said the risk of another washout was too great.

"Any period of significant or extended rain in the lead-up would likely result in the same outcome," NZC chief operating officer Andrew Crummy said.

As a result, the fourth ODI between New Zealand and the Proteas on Wednesday, March 1, will now be played at Hamilton's Seddon Park.

The washout against Australia was the third time in four years that inclement weather forced a one-day international to be cancelled at McLean Park without a ball being bowled.



NZC said urgent remedial work was needed to prepare the ground for ODIs involving England and Pakistan next season.

The Proteas arrived in New Zealand this week and play a one-off T20I against the Black Caps on Friday, followed by five ODIs and three Tests.