Future of Bermuda Classic in doubt

The future of Bermuda's prestigious 20-20 Cricket Classic is in doubt after revelations that it lost around $700,000 this year.

The Royal Gazette reported that the tournament cost the organisers - the Get Fit Foundation - $2.6 million to stage but only produced receipts of $1.9 million.

The news comes shortly before the result of the Get Fit Foundation's request for a large government grant is announced. It is thought they have asked for as much as $3 million after being given $1 million last year.

The organisers admitted they budgeted for a loss because of the high costs of temporary seating and the laying of the top-of-the-range artificial pitch, but added that they were in it for the long term. The event was seen as a success, although the size of the loss may lead to some people reassessing that judgment.

"It is fair to say that without the support of the Government, the Classic will cease to be a viable enterprise, so there is a lot riding on their decision," said a spokesman.