"Caribbean Has Broken Historic Ground With ICC CWC 2007"
Percy Sonn.
©Action Images / Matthew Childs
In a letter to WICB President and ICC CWC 2007 Chairman, Kenneth Gordon, earlier this month, the head of cricket’s world-governing organisation stated: “Logistically, CWC 2007 was never going to be easy, but the West Indies Cricket Board broke historic new ground by pulling off a most successful tournament…do convey my thanks to Chris Dehring and all of the Local Organising Committees (LOCs).”
Sonn also singled out the sterling contribution of the CWC VIBES volunteers who “were such wonderful ambassadors for their countries and the WICB”.
Noting that issues such as the death of Pakistan team coach, Bob Woolmer; the duration of the Event and the “unsatisfactory ending” to the Final, were “out of the hands of the hosts”, he lauded a number of positive aspects.
“For us, as members of the ICC Board, the facts are that the global interest in the game has grown, that so-called minnow countries have shown what can be achieved and that our sponsors were highly satisfied,” stated Sonn.
Meanwhile, officials from various ICC-member countries – including, Argentina, England, Germany, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates and Zimbabwe – have written congratulatory notes to the WICB and its subsidiary, ICC CWC WI 2007 Inc., complimenting them on the high quality of the Event’s organisation and for overcoming the challenges to stage a successful tournament.
President of the Argentina Cricket Association, Ricardo Lord, wrote: “Over the years I have attended many tours and even two World Cup finals. Having read and heard all the realistic comments on this fantastic cricket event in the Caribbean…I very sincerely feel that this one was outstanding in all aspects…”
“You took on the gruelling task of hosting this major event and overcame all odds to make it indeed a memorable tournament,” stated Peter Chingoka, Chairman of Zimbabwe Cricket.
Martin Snedden, Chief Executive Officer of New Zealand Cricket, summarised his experience at ICC CWC 2007, declaring: “Your organisation was superb.”
Gayle Alleyne
