WIPA applauds gift of ICC CWC 2007 Tickets

The West Indies Players' Association (WIPA) has lauded the decision by the Local Organising Committees (LOCs) and ICC Cricket World Cup West Indies 2007 Inc. to offer all living former West Indies players, tickets to next year's ICC Cricket World Cup in the Caribbean.

"WIPA is extremely pleased that the ICC Cricket World Cup organisation has chosen such a befitting manner to show its appreciation to all who have represented the West Indies. ICC Cricket World Cup West Indies 2007 Inc. Managing Director & CEO, Chris Dehring, and I had discussed the matter and I indicated that WIPA would definitely approve of and support this gesture," said WIPA President Dinanath Ramnarine, a former West Indies leg-spinner.

In a recent statement, ICC Cricket World Cup West Indies 2007 Inc. and the nine LOCs announced that all living persons who have represented the West Indies cricket team in Tests or One-Day Internationals would receive a gift of two Category One tickets - free of cost - to "all the warm-up and/or Cricket World Cup matches to be staged in their home territory".

Former West Indies cricketers, born in Caribbean countries not hosting official ICC CWC 2007 matches, will be able to designate a territory and the matches for which they would like to have tickets.

"The LOCs had no hesitation in supporting this plan. We all consider it a small token of appreciation for the joy and inspiration which they - our heroes on the cricket field - have given us over the years," said Dehring of the signal honour.

CEO of St. Vincent & the Grenadines LOC, Mike Findlay - who is a former West Indies wicket-keeper/batsman - also applauded the salute to former players.

"I am delighted that former West Indies cricketers are being offered tickets to watch Cricket World Cup matches. It is very thoughtful of the organisers and clearly indicates that they recognise the contribution those cricketers made to West Indies cricket. It is a way of saying 'your efforts are truly appreciated'," he stated.

On WIPA's behalf, Ramnarine wished ICC Cricket World Cup West Indies 2007 Inc. "the very best in organising the tournament" and pledged WIPA "will do all it can to work with ICC Cricket World Cup to ensure the Event is a success".