Why are the crowds so small at the Australia v South Africa Test?
Tours to South Africa usually happen in February or March, and this Test is in October.
Kingsmead in Durban gets plenty of sunshine and warmth, so the empty stands have surprised many viewers. Nathan Lyon said he expected a bigger crowd for the No.1 and No.2 teams going head to head.
One reason is timing: tours to South Africa have usually been held in February and March. The series is being played in October, and South Africa strongly prefers Tests in December and January.
Durban has traditionally struggled to draw the kind of Test crowds that are likely in Cape Town or Johannesburg. South Africa's economy is severely depressed, with unemployment running at 33 per cent.
This week, riots and civil disturbances have broken out near the city centre, amid protests against immigration.
- 33 per cent
- South African unemployment
- After day three
- Lyon's comment
- Kingsmead, Durban
- Venue
Why it mattersIt shows that a quiet crowd does not always mean fans have lost interest in Test cricket.
AustraliaAustralian fans who travel to South Africa for Tests will find this October series different from the usual February and March tours.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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