VIDEO | An orange-clad spectator takes one-handed stunner in the stands to loot NZC purse
In a day and age, when cricket seems to have drifted far away from the spectators, New Zealand Cricket should be applauded for engaging the fans every now and then. Today, Mitchell Grimstone, a spectator, took a one-handed catch in the stands that helped him earn a cool NZ$50,000 from NZC.
The special thing about the management in all New Zealand cricket stadiums is that it helps the crowd connect better with the game. In an age where cricket is so structured and secured, the game seems to have drifted far away from the fans who wish to reach out to their heroes and get autographs or photos clicked and in that sense, New Zealand have come across as a welcome narrative.Â
There are very few 'restricted zones' in Kiwi stadiums and much to the credit of the cricket board, they engage the fans in a way that any other associations could do. And one of the most important things of their agenda was the âone-handed catchâ and today, Mitchell
In the last over of the New Zealand innings â an innings that was characterized by audacious stroke-play â Ross Taylor slogged Andrew Tye for a six and the Australian fielders could do nothing other than watching the ball fly to the stands. But Grimstone had different plans in his mind as he stretched his hands towards the direction of the ball and grabbed it with just one hand. That became an event in itself for him as he started celebrating instantly with his friends present in the stadium.Â
In the mid-game interval, he was given a cheque worth NZ$50,000 for his stunning catch. While it was fun to see, New Zealand Cricket should be given their share of credit for the way they are encouraging people not just to throng to the stadium, but also make them a part of the celebration of the great game called cricket. Other cricket boards will silently take notice.Â