New Zealand shift venue of South Africa ODI from Napier to Hamilton

New Zealand have shifted next month’s fourth ODI against South Africa from Napier to Hamilton after McLean Park suffered its third abandoned game after a wet outfield.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) shifted next month’s fourth one-dayer between the Black Caps and South Africa to Hamilton due to inadequate drainage at the original venue in Napier.

The second ODI between Australia and New Zealand was abandoned in Napier due to a wet outfield, prompting New Zealand Cricket to launch a probe. (Getty Images)

An ODI between Australia and New Zealand at McLean Park was abandoned because of a sodden outfield this month 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, would 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 Twenty20 international against the Black Caps on Friday, followed by five ODIs and three Tests.