Empty stands make the least noise

Here’s a question that needs answering.

Where have all the crowds gone?

The turnout at the Wanderers for the first Test against Sri Lanka was shocking. What’s going on? Last Saturday which is traditionally a day for chilling out and checking out some great action was watched by about 5,500 people. That is pathetic! Have the South African cricket public lost their appetite. Their team is playing entertaining exciting cricket and not getting the support they deserve.

Shaun Pollock has stated on numerous occasions that his team thrives on the atmosphere provided by full houses…..that is obviously falling on deaf ears. C’mon guys….get off your backsides and get to the game. There is nothing like the live event.

By comparison, just to put things in perspective, I have gathered some statistics from Down Under. If you are brave enough to read on and not feel ashamed, continue.

1. The bumper attendance at the Gabba during the first Ashes Test was 81,277 and that was for only 4 days. It is the second highest for a Gabba Test after the 93,143 who checked out the 5 days play 70 years ago during the fourth Test of the Bodyline series.

2. All that, considering the Australian Cricket Board have been concerned that the support for The Ashes tradition was fading. Obviously this is not the case.

3. The advance ticket sales at the other venues for the remaining Tests are up by 50% on the previous Ashes clashes of four years ago.

4. At the Sydney Cricket Ground, for example, where forward selling of tickets was standing at 48,000 at the end of October (compared to 30,000 at the same time 4 years ago), officials are confident that the first 2 days will be completely sold out.

5. The presence of the Barmy Army is definitely a factor in boosting sales as about 1000 (brave) soldiers fronted at the Gabba each day.

6. As many as 15,000 UK visitors are expected to witness the cricket during the series.

7. Remarkably, even though England capitulated meekly in the first Test, and a miracle is needed if the pattern is to change, the Australian public keeps supporting their team of champions.

8. You can bet your bottom rand that come Boxing Day about 70,000 Australians will be baying for blood come rain or shine.

The SuperSport Park Test will traditionally have plenty of cloud cover. Wouldn’t it be great if there was crowd cover as well.

It’s up to you guys!

Support Polly’s men.