Chris Cairns will make his final appearance for New Zealand on Thursday night in the two-tone brown shirt made famous by his father, Lance, in the 1980’s.
In a fitting finale to the Cairns’ dynasty, the retro style launched for last year’s inaugural Twenty20 international against Australia will be the BLACKCAPS strip against the West Indies in the tour opener at Eden Park.
The match will provide a chronological bookend to two careers that have spanned four decades and provided cricket fans with some of their most enduring memories.
The Twenty20 international, including the retro shirts and accompanying facial hair, have proven to be a popular addition to the New Zealand international schedule, according to New Zealand Cricket Marketing Manager, Peter Dwan.
He said that indications for Thursday point to a sell out crowd at Eden Park.
“Both the public and the players love the Twenty20 format and the atmosphere it creates,” said Dwan.
“We have had very good pre-match sales and there tends to be a large walk up crowd to these matches. With this being the last ever chance to see Chris Cairns on the park for New Zealand, people should get in quick and get their tickets.”
Batsman Lou Vincent says the 80’s style shirts are extremely popular amongst the team.
"The boys love the retro jerseys," says Vincent. "It adds to the whole atmosphere that comes with Twenty20 cricket.
“With it being Chris' last match there is also a lot of excitement building within the team.
“Thursday's game will be a great preview to what I'm sure will be an exciting One-Day and Test series against the West Indies.”
For ticket information for Cairns' Final Blast. or call 0508 Cricket.
