ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 plans continue with full support of the Region's leaders

ICC Cricket World Cup West Indies 2007 Inc. remains focused on its task and has the full support of the region, as it forges ahead with delivery of the best Cricket World Cup ever.

Speaking today Dr. Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada and chairman of the CARICOM sub-committee on cricket backed the event and reaffirmed the level of commitment across the Caribbean. "Cricket World Cup 2007 has the unwavering support of the heads of government across the region. I am confident that the current matter between the WICB and the players will not prevent the Caribbean coming together to make CWC 2007 a world class affair. This is an outstanding opportunity for us the showcase the capabilities of the region as a whole."

Chris Dehring, Managing Director and CEO of ICC CWC WI 2007 Inc. also commented on the support being given to the event and outlined the strategies already in place to secure its smooth running and successful delivery.

"Our commitment to delivering a first class tournament is backed up the fact that in addition to host countries signing Host Venue Agreements, every one has also provided us with a government guarantee backing those commitments. This includes the substantial venue development programme estimated at over US$200 Million, with work already underway."

Dehring also pointed out that whilst the outcome of negotiations between the WICB and players may impact on cricket in the region, such sponsorships issues are well defined and are unlikely to occur in the cricket world cup. "During the Cricket World Cup the 16 qualifying teams and their respective cricket boards execute a Participating Nations Agreement where they agree to a window of exclusion during which existing team or personal sponsorships or endorsement deals are not applicable. This ensures there is no conflict for teams with regards to the Global Partners or Official Sponsors of the Cricket World Cup"

Aware of the level of planning and resources that would be needed in order to deliver an event of such magnitude, the WICB decided that a separately managed organisation would be the best strategy for fulfilling the objective of putting on this mega-event. As a result ICC CWC WI 2007 Inc. was set up with its own board of distinguished Caribbean nationals and professional management whose sole focus and responsibility is to manage the Cricket World Cup. The foresight of the WICB means that they are free to concentrate on dealing with the development of the game and players in the region whilst ICC CWC 2007 Inc. remains focused in its undertaking to host the forthcoming event.