Edgbaston expecting record crowd for T20 Finals Day

WARWICKSHIRE County Cricket Club has said it is expecting a record crowd for a domestic game at tomorrow’s NatWest T20 Blast Finals Day.

The authorities at Edgbaston Stadium said expectations were high that the event would scale new heights after ticket sales exceeded the previous best of just over 22,500 set at the same event last year.

The club has been boosted because of the qualification of the Birmingham Bears’ for the semi-finals for only the second time in the 12-year history of the tournament, and the first time at their home ground.
 
Colin Povey, Chief Executive at Edgbaston Stadium, said: “Last year’s Finals Day at Edgbaston set a new record attendance for the tournament and we’re thrilled to beat that this year, with around 23,000 spectators set to be in attendance on Saturday.
 
“Ticket sales before the quarter-final stage were already strong, but the Bears winning through to our first home Finals Day in-front of our Members and supporters has generated a great buzz around the club.”
 
The finals day is one of cricket’s blue ribbon events and one of the biggest days in British sport. Povey has previously likened the event to the FA Cup Final.

The Birmingham Bears take on Surrey in the first semi-final at 11am. Hampshire then face Lancashire Lightning at 2.30pm, with the winners meeting in final at 6.45pm.
 
ECB Chief Operating Officer Gordon Hollins said: “This is fantastic news for the competition and reflects Edgbaston’s outstanding track record as a host venue for Finals Day. The home team’s presence on Saturday will also add extra spice to what promises to be a terrific cricketing occasion and a great way to round off a memorable season of NatWest T20 Blast action.”