ICC World Twenty20 experience becomes reality for Durban children

The ICC World Twenty20 cricket experience has become a reality for 500 children in the Durban area who have been given tickets by Cricket South Africa (CSA) to attend three matches.

A decision by CSA some months ago to introduce this new and exciting format of the game to youngsters living in areas where ICC World Twenty20 matches are being played has proved to be a great success.

Each Union was tasked with selecting 500 youngsters to attend selected matches. The children selected are already cricket fans having come through the Bakers Mini Cricket system or from schools that play cricket.

The children are transported to the matches and receive a T-shirt, cap and refreshments and judging by their enthusiasm and excitement this format of the game is without a doubt a big hit.

In addition to these 500 children, a further 4000 tickets have been made available by CSA and the ICC for distribution to children from disadvantaged schools in the Durban area who have also been able to experience all the fun and action that is part of the ICC World Twenty20.

Commenting on the issue, ICC Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Speed said: "Having these children coming along and experience the excitement of international cricket first-hand is fantastic for South Africa and for the tournament.

"They help generate extra atmosphere in the ground and hopefully the thrills and spills of this type of cricket will encourage them to seek out the longer forms of the game, both as spectators and participants.

"They are the next generation of watchers and players in South Africa and with this encouragement to get involved in cricket they can help our strong sport grow even stronger."

The ICC World Twenty20 involves 27 matches at three venues - Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg - over 14 days with the final set to take place in Johannesburg on 24 September.