Tickets for next year’s Test between South Africa and England at Newlands in Cape Town went on sale to the general public on Monday, 7 October 2019.
Tickets for days one, two and three – on 3, 4 and 5 January 2020, respectively – sold out before midday. At the time of writing, tickets were still available for days four and five.
Tickets were availed to members of the Official Proteas Supporters’ Club, but not the general public, in late August.
The grass banks at the northern section of the iconic Cape Town venue won’t accommodate spectators throughout the match. This limitation, enforced by ongoing construction work at Newlands, has reduced the ground’s capacity from 18,000 to 16,000.
What WPCA said
“That entire area is out of bounds on any match day and it was a concern, but we have been busy with it since June and we have provided a document to Cricket South Africa, which they have expressed complete confidence in,” said Western Province Cricket Association chief executive officer Nabeal Dien last week.
Dien’s remarks came after the WPCA and CSA confirmed the fixture will be hosted by Newlands. It was in marginal doubt due to the construction work.
What CSA said
“As with all hosting agreements for international matches both here and around the world, there are certain guarantees that need to be put in place to confirm the hosting rights,” added CSA CEO Thabang Moroe.
“We are currently gearing up to host the new year’s Test match at Newlands as planned. The readiness of the stadium is on track and, barring a significant change in circumstances, it is unlikely that the venue for this Test will change from our schedule.
“What is equally important is that cricket at all levels, from franchise down to clubs and schools, should not be compromised in any way.”