McLean Park, Napier: Cricket in Hawke’s Bay
A profile of McLean Park in Napier, a small, batter-friendly New Zealand ground known for big hitting and a tied T20I between New Zealand and India.
Overview
McLean Park is the main cricket ground in Napier, on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. It is also used for other sports, notably rugby, and is one of the smaller international venues in the country. The ground sits in the Hawke’s Bay region, a coastal area known for its wine and Art Deco architecture.
Central Districts, the domestic association covering the region, plays matches here, and the ground has hosted international limited-overs cricket.
Pitch and conditions
The pitch here is generally good for batting, and the boundaries on one or both sides are short. High scores have therefore been common, particularly in white-ball cricket. Sea breezes can help swing bowlers, and rain is often a concern.
Memorable matches
In January 2019 India beat New Zealand by eight wickets in an ODI here, with Mohammed Shami taking three early wickets. In November 2022 a Twenty20 international between New Zealand and India was tied on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method after rain, and India won the three-match series 1-0.
Why it matters
McLean Park gives regional New Zealand a place on the international calendar. Its small size creates a lively atmosphere, and its short boundaries have made it a favourite among hard-hitting batters. As with other New Zealand venues, fixtures change from season to season.
Frequently asked questions
Where is McLean Park?
It is in Napier, in the Hawke’s Bay region of New Zealand’s North Island.
Is McLean Park a high-scoring ground?
Often, because the pitch is generally good for batting and the boundaries are short.
What happened in the 2022 T20I here?
The match between New Zealand and India was tied under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method after rain.