By Dave Goosselink
The All Blacks' first test in World Cup year kicks off tonight at Carisbrook - it's the ground's 38th and final test match.
Even though ticket sales for the one-off game against Fiji have been sluggish, Dunedinites have prepared in a way that's become somewhat of a tradition.
- VIDEO: Nude rugby coach speaks of big year ahead
- EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: Nude rugby training run for Dunedin’s Nude Blacks
It's just over a year since fans celebrated what they thought was Carisbrook's big farewell. There were plenty of special tributes that night, but the focus this evening will be on raising money for the Canterbury Earthquake appeal.
The target was half a million dollars, but southern fans have been slow to book.
"A little bit sluggish, but I think today we'll get a big walk-up and they'll get in behind this event, and we'll get funds raised and it'll hit the target we want," says Doug McSweeney, Otago Rugby marketing manager.
Last-minute ticket buyers are confident there's good support.
"I think it's going to be a good turnout, you'll probably find a lot of students will just come in a flurry," says Eric Sanfield.
"Although they've got it wrong playing at night, it should be in the afternoon and they should be inviting everyone," says Geoff Gardine.
But it's not the only game in town.
Hundreds turned out for the traditional nude rugby clash, played opposite Dunedin's new stadium. The game was managed by a genuine blind referee, with a single female joining the lads on the field.
"Some of the opposition, like Fiji, backed off a wee bit which is probably good for our team," says Rachel Scott.
"You know, I was a bit of a secret weapon."
The Nude Blacks stormed to victory against Fiji, a result likely to be repeated tonight.
3 News
source: newshub archive
