EXCITEMENT BUILDS FOR THE T20 CRICKET WORLD CUP

NSW is set for a major economic injection with Sydney set to host a suite of action-packed matches as part of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which starts in less than two weeks’ time.

A host of sports stars and celebrities, including Australian women’s cricketer Alyssa Healy, GWS Giants player Lachie Whitfield and former NRL player Michael Ennis, got into the spirit today taking part in a ‘Biggest Hit’ competition on Sydney Harbour to promote the upcoming T20 action.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said Sydney will host seven games, with tens of thousands of cricket fans expected to flock to NSW throughout the tournament.

“This is going to be a cracker of a tournament as the Aussies look to defend their T20 World Cup crown and NSW will be right in the thick of things,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Sports fans across the state will be treated to world-class T20 cricket action and our economy is also set for a major boost.

“This will be a real boon for the NSW economy. Our restaurants, bars, hotels and shops will be filled with the thousands of visitors who will embark on Sydney throughout the tournament.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the event is part of the NSW Government’s 10 World Cups in 10 Years initiative, which is driving visitors to the state and delivering economic benefits for our community.

“The T20 World Cup follows the huge success of recent sporting events, such as the FIBA Women’s World Cup and the UCI Road World Cycling Championships, which put NSW on the world stage,” Mr Henskens said.

“NSW is showcasing itself to the world with the best athletes on the planet treating fans to an array of sporting contests that carry with them huge economic benefits, and the T20 World Cup is another great example of that.”

Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said there was no better place than Sydney to take in the action of the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

“Sydney has a long history of hosting world class events. The energy of the city, the vibrant culture and diverse experiences provide the most exciting backdrop for the tournament,” Mr Franklin said.

“We are delivering on our promise to make NSW the major events capital of the Asia Pacific and giving locals and visitors the opportunity to witness the world’s best athletes right here in Sydney.”

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Local Organising Committee CEO Michelle Enright said tickets to matches at the SCG are on sale now.

“Tickets are selling fast for all six match days in Sydney, which includes the Super 12 opener between Australia and New Zealand on 22 October, and the first semi-final on 9 November,” Ms Enright said.

“All children’s tickets for Super 12 matches are just $5 and adult tickets start from $20, so we urge Sydneysiders to gather family and friends and head out to experience the unique atmosphere of a World Cup on home soil.”

To purchase tickets, visit http://tickets.t20worldcup.com/.

MEDIA: Benn Ayre | Premier | 0428 342 325