Rugby: Prospects of two tests in city played down

David Davies
David Davies
David Davies has played down the prospect of Dunedin hosting two All Black tests next year.

But the Dunedin Venues Management Limited chief executive would be "absolutely delighted" if Forsyth Barr Stadium was awarded a test between the All Blacks and Ireland.

The once-unthinkable idea of two tests being played in Dunedin in one season has gained some traction in recent weeks.

The $200 million covered stadium was completed in time for the Rugby World Cup, and hosted four memorable matches.

With Christchurch still out of commission as a test venue, and as many as seven home tests to be allocated, the feeling is Dunedin could host two internationals for the first time.

Ireland is coming for a full three-test series in June. There is speculation Dunedin could get one of those tests, as well as one of the fixtures in the new Four Nations, possibly involving newcomer Argentina.

But Davies indicated DVML was not getting too far ahead of itself and pushing to host two tests in 2012.

"We want to get as many big events as we can. And we can hardly be blamed for being ambitious about it," he said yesterday.

"But my view is that we aren't looking at that [hosting two tests] as a scenario. It's never really entered our thinking.

"In my view, we need to concentrate on delivering one very good experience, and we'll see where that leads us."

The Irish last played the All Blacks in Dunedin in 2002, when Carisbrook hosted a night test for the first time.

That was a dire match, but the Irish traditionally bring the most vibrant fans, and they combined with Italy to create a cracking atmosphere in the final World Cup pool game played at the new stadium.

"We had a great time with Ireland. They're touring next year and if they decide to give us Ireland, we'd be absolutely delighted," Davies said.

"We've obviously been speaking to the NZRU. They have to go through the process of divvying these things up. And you've got other venues shouting their merits from the rooftops.

"The message we want to get out is that we've done OK, that we've got a good venue that can put on a good show, and we want to build on that."

Midweek games will also be back on the schedule for touring rugby teams.

The Irish series takes place during the new June break in the Super 15, and there is speculation the Highlanders may be asked to play Ireland in Dunedin a few days before a test.

DVML had not talked about the possibility of a midweek game "at this stage", Davies said.

The World Cup games had exposed the new stadium to the world and the South had played its role in creating a special atmosphere.

"I think we can have some confidence now that we can offer a uniquely Dunedin experience.

"The joint approach from the city, commerce and emergency services gave us a really unique atmosphere down here."

 

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