Cricket: Blackcaps auction to help Cyclone Gabrielle victims crosses $30,000 before Friday's close

New Zealand cricket fans wanting to get their hands on a piece of history are running out of time, with a charity auction for signed shirts from the dramatic victory over England at the Basin Reserve to close on Friday.

Last month, the Blackcaps completed one of their all-time great test match wins - coming from behind to defeat England by a solitary run and draw the series at 1-1.

The victory represented only the fourth time in the history of test cricket a side has won after being made to follow on (batting again after trailing by more than 200 runs in the first innings), and only the second time a team has won by one run.

Michael Bracewell celebrates against England.
Michael Bracewell celebrates against England. Photo credit: Photosport

As part of fundraising efforts to help those impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, shirts signed by the Blackcaps and England are up for grabs.

The shirts are both in a single frame and are each signed by the respective sides as part of a special fundraising effort from New Zealand Cricket.

As of Thursday morning, the auction for both shirts had already crossed a bid of $30,000.

The Blackcaps have already shown how the cyclone impacted them, with fast bowler and Hawke's Bay native Blair Tickner unable to hide his emotions before that second test against England took place.

Appearing on AM on Thursday, Tickner's New Zealand and Central Districts teammate Will Young - who also calls Hawke's Bay home - emphasised how important the support of the public is. 

"The cyclone really hit the Hawke's Bay region hard," said Young. "We all know people who are doing it really tough and will be doing it tough for quite some time.

"The Hawke's Bay as well as many communities right up the east coast are still struggling with the effects of the cyclone.

"For ANZ and New Zealand Cricket to get in behind this, and re-energise the awareness behind it is awesome.

"To be on this couch this morning, and to be an advocate for that, is awesome."

The first one-day international (ODI) between the Blackcaps and Sri Lanka, played at Eden Park on Saturday, is also a fundraising effort - with all ticket proceeds going to cyclone relief. ANZ has already pledged $1 million, while public donations are also open.

"The ODIs are going to be an awesome series," Young continued. "It's always a special moment to represent your country.

"But to play at Eden Park for a game like this is just another level. If I can urge fans in Auckland to get along to the game, all ticket proceeds will go to the cause.

"If you're sitting at home watching, there'll be opportunities to donate in the game too. Please get in behind it."

The link for the auction can be found here.