New catch zones will be introduced at New Zealand cricket grounds following dangerous actions from fans at Black Caps' matches.
Tui Catch a Million fans and supporters at the Bay Oval in Mt Maunganui. Photo: Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
The Tui "Catch a Million" promotion came under scrutiny this week following the Twenty20 match between the Black Caps and West Indies in Mount Maunganui.
Several fans attempting to catch a six with one hand, which would have won them $50,000, fell heavily onto or over other spectators, including children.
Both Black Caps coach Mike Hesson and former players expressed concerns about the potential for injury.
In a statement, New Zealand Cricket said it has modified promotion protocols in the interests of crowd safety and fan experience.
Dedicated catch zones will be created at venues, aside from Auckland's Eden Park and Wellington Stadium, which contestants will have to be located in order to qualify for the prize. Catches taken outside these zones will be deemed ineligible.
Unruly behaviour, or behaviour that risks injury, such as diving, will be deemed a breach of the terms and conditions, resulting in disqualification from the promotion.
Extra ground announcements will also be made reminding fans to stick to the rules.
-RNZ
