ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – West Indies Cricket Board president Julian Hunte said yesterday the imminent four-day first class season would be used to renew interest in cricket among regional fans.
“Cricket is a powerful force in the West Indies and it has helped to unite the people of the region,” Hunte said ahead of the start of the first round in Jamaica today.
“We have a responsibility to make sure that the people who love this great game, feel a part of what is happening on the field as they watch from beyond the boundary. We intend to bring the game back to the people and have them participate in a major way.”
This year, the WICB has made several significant changes to the competition. It has been reduced to seven rounds from the 14 played last year and will also feature day/night matches, with pink balls being used in these fixtures.
Hunte said he expected the innovative competition to be full of interest and urged players to observe the spirit of the game during the campaign.
“The season promises to be an exciting one and we are really looking forward to some tough, hard and competitive cricket on the field and positive support and enjoyment by the fans off the field,” the WICB head noted.
“We urge the players to play in the true spirit of the game and have respect for self, respect for others and respect for the game. We know the competition will be fierce but cricket remains the ‘gentleman’s game’ and the game must be respected.
“In the Caribbean we are fortunate to have a group of excellent match officials who will be in charge so we know the game will be in good hands.”
Guyana have drawn a bye for the opening round which bowls off at 11 am (10 am Jamaican time).
