The new-look NAB Cup fixture means teams now have the opponents and venues of their first four games decided in advance with the Bombers and the Saints scheduled to play under lights at 7pm.

With the two Melbourne-based teams set to draw a big crowd, Wangaratta mayor Roberto Paino said it was the perfect game to unveil the $3 million redevelopment.

“We couldn’t have wished for a more exciting game to mark the launch of this project,” he said.

“An Essendon and St Kilda showdown under lights in Wangaratta is sure to attract a lot of football fans, both locally and interstate.”

“The council has been working with two committees; a match day committee, to plan for the logistics of hosting the event and optimising the outcomes, and a steering committee, looking at umbrella events that will enhance the weekend for locals and visitors.”

Cr Paino encouraged anyone interested in attending the game to purchase tickets early.

Presale tickets will go on sale this Monday until Friday March 2.