Durban cricket stadium sees low attendance during Test match

Low spectator turnout at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban has raised concerns among cricket experts regarding the future of Test cricket. During a recent Test match against Australia, daily attendance averaged only 4,000 people, significantly lower than the expected 15,000 to 20,000 per day.

Several factors contributed to the empty stands, including domestic unrest related to anti-immigration protests and heightened security in the Durban central business district. Economic pressures, specifically rising inflation and record-high petrol prices in South Africa, also impacted attendance.

Notably, a major football final held at the nearby Moses Mabhida Stadium drew 50,000 spectators on the same weekend. The MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns saw massive crowds despite the teams not being from Durban, suggesting a shift in sporting preferences among local fans.