EXPECT AN 'ACTION PACKED TOURNAMENT'
Steve Elworthy, Tournament Director of the ICC World Twenty20 2009, looks ahead to the event in England
Beginning on 5 June, the ICC World Twenty20 England 2009 is just around the corner and I can already sense the excitement in the air. The preparation has been thorough and all that’s left to say is, “Let the games begin!”
Twenty20 cricket has been a revelation since its inception and it’s now arguably the most popular form of the game, in terms of the fan base it has, especially when you consider how many new supporters it’s brought to cricket.
The key ingredients to exciting matches are having the world’s best players showcasing their skills, mixed with the rivalry and passion that comes from representing your country. We have both of these at this year’s ICC World
Twenty20 tournament and I’m expecting a high octane, action packed tournament that will keep everyone gripped until the very last ball.
Following on from the success of the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 tournament in South Africa in 2007, I have worked hard to ensure that this year’s event is just as successful when we draw the curtains at Lord’s on the evening of 21 June 2009.
The ICC, together with the England and Wales Cricket Board and the host venues – Lord’s, The Oval, Trent Bridge and Taunton – are keen to ensure we put on a spectacular tournament for everyone - participating nations, spectators,
sponsors and the global media.
We are creating an atmosphere that is fun and exciting but in a safe and family-friendly environment, with dancers, music and sponsor activities to complement the on-field action. All our tournament ticket prices have been tailored to ensure a value day out for fans, with nearly all match-days incorporating two games showcasing four international teams. This double-header format allows spectators to watch two games for the price of one match-day ticket.
Such was the tremendous success of the volunteers in South Africa two years ago, they will continue in 2009. Over 1000 volunteers have chosen to take part in our Twenty20Vision programme and they are currently undergoing training. The incredible number wanting to be involved in our tournament is testament to the buzz the event has brought to England. Volunteers will assist spectators coming to grounds and act as information points. We also have numerous groups helping with media, ticketing and event entertainment behind the scenes. I have no doubt the Twenty20Vision volunteers will contribute enormously to the success of our event.
The ICC World Twenty20 will also set a sporting global precedent with the women’s tournament played alongside the men’s and, for the first time, the semi-final and final stages integrated. In an historic move, the men’s and women’s finals on 21 June will both be staged at Lord’s. This is a great and positive development both for cricket and women’s sport in general.
The ICC World Twenty20 England 2009 brings together the world’s top male and female players in a tough competition that pits nation against nation. The top prize is to be crowned ICC World Twenty20 champions on 21 June. What a day this promises to be and I hope to see you there!
