New Zealand Cricket today announced its full international schedule, with Tauranga securing matches against each touring side.
- BLACKCAPS v India ODI – Friday, 13 November 2026
- BLACKCAPS v India ODI – Sunday, 15 November 2026
- WHITE FERNS v Bangladesh ODI – Monday, 21 December 2026
- WHITE FERNS v Bangladesh ODI – Wednesday, 23 December 2026
- BLACKCAPS v Sri Lanka Test – Thursday, 4 February to Monday, 8 February 2027
Bay Oval will welcome the powerhouse Indian men’s team this November for two One Day Internationals as part of India’s tour of New Zealand.
India’s return to Tauranga marks a major moment for local cricket fans, following their last appearance at Bay Oval during the 2022 T20 International series, where Suryakumar Yadav lit up a packed crowd with a memorable century.
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale says the quality of this summer’s line-up is something special. “Hosting these world-class teams and securing matches from each international series is fantastic news for Tauranga and cricket fans across the region. It would be great to see people packing out Bay Oval for these matches.”
Bay Oval General Manager Kelvin Jones says the venue is ready for another standout international season. “It’s always exciting hosting India, and we’re thrilled to have two matches in the ODI series here at Bay Oval. Indian fans bring an incredible atmosphere, with plenty of energy and excitement, alongside a huge international television audience.”
BLACKCAPS captain Mitchell Santner backs this sentiment. “It’s hard to adequately convey the energy of an Indian cricket game to people who haven’t experienced it. It’s so much more than the cricket on the field – there’s really nothing quite like it in terms of the noise, colour and pure fandom.”
Mitchell says Bay Oval has quickly established itself as one of the country's premier cricket venues. “Bay Oval is obviously our newest international cricket ground, but it’s quickly building a reputation with players and fans around the world as a world-class venue. The facilities are fantastic, and being able to play cricket by the sea at Mount Maunganui isn’t too bad either.”
In December, the WHITE FERNS will return for two ODI matches against Bangladesh. Women’s cricket continues to grow in popularity and profile, and having two international matches at Bay Oval ahead of next year’s inaugural ICC Women’s Champions Trophy is a fantastic opportunity to experience the skill and excitement of the women’s game.
“This is a chance for families, young fans and the wider community to come along and watch some of the world’s best women’s cricketers in action,” says Kelvin. “The pre-Christmas period is a perfect time to head to Bay Oval, relax on the banks and enjoy international cricket away from the holiday rush.”
WHITE FERNS captain Melie Kerr says Tauranga has become a special place for the team. “The crowds in the Mount have been growing for the WHITE FERNS, and that support and energy gives the whole team a real lift when we're out in the middle. There’s always a great atmosphere at Bay Oval and we’re looking forward to getting back there in December.”
The international season wraps up in February with the BLACKCAPS taking on Sri Lanka in the first Test match of their multi format tour.
Mayor Mahé says, “Today’s announcement continues Bay Oval’s strong run of successfully hosting international cricket, which have proven hugely popular with locals and visitors to our city. We know our community loves having international cricket in their own backyard and the results speak for themselves.”
Recent data from event specialists Fresh Info supports this, showing nearly 60 percent of attendees at this year’s WHITE FERNS v Australia and BLACKCAPS v Pakistan double header were from Tauranga.
The event also delivered strongly on community impact, with an incredible 99 percent of residents agreeing hosting international cricket made Tauranga a more enjoyable place to live and 96 percent saying it increased their pride in the city.
Last year’s Australia T20I series in October 2025 attracted over 4,000 visitors from outside of Tauranga and generated more than 5,000 visitor nights, delivering strong economic benefits ahead of the summer peak.
Tauranga City Council, in partnership with Bay Oval Trust and TECT Community Trust, have secured this season's international cricket schedule, demonstrating the impact of local partnerships in attracting events that deliver significant economic impact, community pride and visitor appeal for the region.
For more information visit: New Zealand Cricket