Kolkata to host second tsunami match

Kolkata has been selected as the venue for the second match of the fundraising series between an ICC World XI and an Asian XI, which will be held on February 13. Concerns had been raised about the feasibility of Kolkata after the Indian government had not responded to requests for tax exemptions on the proceeds from the game, but Ehsan Mani, the ICC president, confirmed that the venue had been chosen.

"The first World Cricket Tsunami Appeal match provided a tremendous spectacle and most importantly, it helped us raise over US$11 million for the relief effort", said Mani. "The tsunami had a devastating impact on the city of Chennai and surrounding areas and it will be fitting if the second match is hosted in India. We look forward to the cricket world uniting again on February 13 as the work begins to rebuild the millions of shattered lives."

Speaking to the media after the announcement, Jagmohan Dalmiya, the president of the Asian Cricket Council, said : "The slogan for the second Tsunami Appeal match would be 'Cricket for Humanity'. We will leave no stone unturned to ensure that a human chain is built up across the world, so that everyone could come forward to donate generously for the noble cause. We have already started receiving warm response from various cricket-playing countries." The squads for the match are expected to be announced soon.