The best of the Caribbean will be on display again this year as Carnival and Cricket comes together for the 2015 West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Nagico Super50 tournament which bowls off tomorrow at the Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain.
WICB director Baldath Mahabir, speaking at the media launch of the tournament at the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) head off in Balmain Couva yesterday, expects the colour and excitement of Carnival to flow over into the Super50 which is being staged in T&T for the second consecutive year.
“We are working with the Ministry of Arts and Multiculturalism and the Tourism Development Company to bring more energy and more vibes to the NAGICO Super50,” Mahabir explained.
He also noted that the competition will be broadcast live on international television US-based cable sports channel ESPN Caribbean and that the best cricketers from T&T the rest of the West Indies will once again be on show.
“As the world prepares for World Cup 2015, let’s introduce the new year with a tournament that displays to all the energy of the Caribbean on and off the field. As the players display their sublime athletic skill on the field, let’s support them from the stands with noise, energy, rhythm and enthusiasm,” said Mahabir. “And just before Carnival, we expect the enthusiasm of carnival to spill over into the NAGICO Super50, 2015,” he added.
The TTCB executive member, Mahabir, also pointed out that the tournament would go a long way in identifying future players for the regional side.
He explained that the Caribbean players have a flare for the shorter versions of the game and the Super50 will give them an opportunity to showcase their talent to the world.
“It is no secret that at this time we have adapted far better to the shorter formats of the game. Fifty-over cricket, while recognised as the shorter version of the game creates the ideal opportunity for our players to transition. It offer opportunities for both players and spectators to enjoy the ebb and flow, the unique nuances of the traditional cricket match,” said Mahabir.
“Our aim as a Board is to take West Indies Cricket to the top. It was done before and if it could be done once, it could be done again,” he added. “However it is not going to be easy. It is an immense task but with the support of our fans, our sponsors, our territorial boards and our players, we will get there.”
