A 21-year-old student has admitted running naked onto the pitch at a World Cup cricket match, but is going to apply for a discharge without conviction.

Fergus Watts streaked at Hagley Oval in Christchurch during the match between England and Scotland on February 23. Witnesses said he was encouraged by his friends.

He evaded security and fled the park but was arrested in South Hagley Park.

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Watts pleaded guilty in the Christchurch District Court to the charge under the Major Events Management Act,.of going without authority onto the playing surface at a major sporting event. If convicted he faces a fine of up to $5000 or imprisonment for up to three months.

Defence counsel Andrew McCormick said Watts would apply for a discharge without conviction.

Watts was remanded on bail until a hearing on June 22.

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