New Zealand will return to the fashion of 1984

Fans dubbed the Beige Brigade wear replicas from New Zealand's first foray in coloured kit in the late 1970s.

"To acknowledge the game's arrival on the international stage we are looking to do something special," said New Zealand Cricket chief Martin Snedden.

"The idea came from (the team) and they are enthusiastically behind it."

This match will be a good opportunity for us to gauge support for Twenty20 cricket Martin Snedden

The concept was received with delight by Beige Brigade organisers.

"We have been preaching the mantra 'It's About Passion Not Fashion' for several years, now and have travelled the world and the country in support of the Black Caps," said a statement.

"It is wonderful to see that the impact of the Kiwi cricket fan wearing beige has inspired a complete change in the clothing that the national team will don come February."

Launched on the English county circuit in 2003, matches of 20 overs per side have proved massively popular with fans.

New Zealand's match against Australia in Auckland on 17 February trumps England's Ashes clash at the Rose Bowl next June as the first such game between men's national sides.

"Twenty20 cricket may one day find a regular place at international level as a third generation form of the game, complementing Test cricket and one-day internationals," said Sneddon.

"It may also have its place at grassroots level where many people no longer have the time to play longer versions of the game.

"This match will be a good opportunity for us to gauge support for Twenty20 cricket and will be a great opportunity for New Zealanders to experience the excitement of this version of the game."