Rob Battersby and Tanisha Malkki. Picture: Alex Coppel.
4.44pm: A SENSATIONAL century to Victorian Aaron Finch has brought Australia roaring back to life in its Cricket World Cup opener at the MCG.
A packed crowd stood to applaud Finch’s feat against England and the opener jumped for joy, hugged batting partner George Bailey and raised his bat in honour. The two have brought up a 100 run partnership after Australia had earlier fallen to 3/71.
3.35pm: AUSTRALIA has hit an early snag in its opening World Cup match at the MCG with English bowlers spoiling the show for the home crowd.
After a strong start, Australia fell to 3/71 with the loss of the key wickets of star batsmen Steve Smith, David Warner and Shane Watson.
Chants of “En-ger-land” have rung out around the ground as visiting fans cheer on an upset.
3.10pm: A BUOYANT Melbourne crowd has packed the MCG for Australia’s opening match of the Cricket World Cup.
Aussie cricketers have belted out the national anthem along with spectators that have flocked to the ground bathed in brilliant sunshine.
Aaron Finch celebrates his ton against England at the MCG with teammate George Bailey. Picture: AFP Thousands are still streaming into the ground with strict bag searches being conducted at every gate.
Australia is batting first against England in the first of five day-nighters to be played in Melbourne during the six week tournament, which features 14 competing nations.
EARLIER: MELBOURNE will today pad up for another crack at sporting history with Australia’s opening match of the Cricket World Cup at the MCG.
With all seats sold, a record crowd is expected to pack Australia’s sporting mecca as the Aussies take on arch rival England before about 90,000 screaming fans.
English fans outside the MCG. Picture: Alex Coppel. Millions more around the world will tune in for the first match of the six-week tournament featuring 14 nations.
Premier Daniel Andrews said he expected the tournament to inject about $90 million into the economy of the state as fans flock from interstate and overseas for five matches in Melbourne.
“Hosting the Cricket World Cup continues an amazing summer of sport for Victorians,’’ he said. “And it showcases our state to the millions watching around the world.’’
World Cup chiefs expect one billion people around the globe to watch the tournament, and more than 350,000 fans are tipped to attend the five Melbourne matches.
Police have warned fans to be vigilant amid increased terror fears but said they should feel comfortable with security forces blitzing the city, MCG and surrounds. Superintendent Peter O’Neill said there would be a visible police presence before, during and after each match. Spectators have also been advised to be patient with bag searches at the gate.
Cricket fans caught doing the wrong thing face hefty on-the-spot fines, including $590 for being found drunk in a public place and $738 for being caught drunk and disorderly.
Bristol cricket fans Richard, Ben, Liam, and Richard. Picture: Alex Coppel.
Patrons attempting to smuggle alcohol into the event risk a $295 on-the-spot fine.
Herald Sun
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