Christchurch is gearing up for a fantastic afternoon of cricket, culture and community spirit as the BLACKCAPS prepare to meet fans at a special free celebration in Victoria Square this afternoon.

The event will officially launch New Zealand’s much anticipated cricket series against India, giving families and supporters a chance to meet their sporting heroes before the action begins at Hagley Oval.

The celebrations will feature an official team welcome, cultural performances, player autograph sessions, food trucks, entertainment and giveaways.

Fans will also be able to test their batting skills using ANZ’s new Bat Zone augmented reality cricket simulator.

The free event opens at 4pm, with the official programme beginning at 5pm.

Beyond the cricket, the occasion marks 100 years of sporting connections between New Zealand and India, celebrating a relationship that began when an Indian Army hockey team toured New Zealand in 1926.

The celebrations recognise the friendships, cultural connections and shared passion for sport that have brought the two countries together across generations.