21 January 2005

Cricket spectacle will generate big bucks for tsunami appeal

A feast of top-class cricket, celebrity hi-jinks, government and corporate giving is expected to raise over $1 million for tsunami relief during the three match Black Caps versus FICA World XI one day series, which begins in Christchurch tomorrow.

World Vision marketing director Bruce Waldin says the event will potentially push World Vision New Zealand's fundraising total to well over $4m. The current World Vision appeal total stands at $3.2m.

"Never before have we been involved in an event of such a scale that has come together so quickly," he said.

"It is testimony to the way the whole tsunami tragedy has gripped the nation. You cannot generate this kind of momentum with a slick advertising campaign - something has to really touch people's hearts," he said.

Mr Waldin said special thanks must go to the government, corporate donors and especially New Zealand Cricket and the Federation of International Cricketers' Association (FICA) for making the series possible.

He also commended the participants for getting into the spirit of the event. Major fundraising initiatives will be as follows:

- Government: The New Zealand Government will contribute $20 per run, $1,000 for every four and $5,000 for every six.

- Vector: Will contribute $3,000 for each dismissal by catch.

- Sky TV: Coverage will include an appeal line number 0800 277 667 to encourage private donations.

- Collection: World Vision volunteers will conduct a collection at the grounds.

- Celebrity lunchtime entertainment: Well known names will compete in fun events to raise extra money. At Jade stadium Silver Fern Adine Harper, All Black Justin Marshall, Crusaders coach Robbie Deans and TV personality Lana Coc-Kroft will compete in a Catch for cash competition.

- On-line auction: Cricketing memorabilia, including the players' shirts, will be auctioned on www.insignia.co.nz.

Other corporate donors include Brit Insurance ($200,000) and National Bank ($100,000).

All money raised will go to New Zealand Cricket Tsunami Relief and will then be distributed between Cricket Aid - a Sri Lankan Cricket relief initiative and aid agency World Vision.

ENDS

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