JOIN US “I must admit that the support of the locals has been great,” said Lorgat. “They have come with their drums and trumpets and have had fun. I am very satisfied and pleased with the way things have unfolded in the Caribbean,” he added.
The party atmosphere in the stands has added a dash of colour to the event and the fact wasn’t lost on Lorgat. “We understood what we needed to do to bring the people back to the grounds. It is showing now. When the local supporters are allowed to do what they are familiar with, it makes a difference. We have seen it at Guyana and St Lucia,” said Lorgat.
The South African was happy with the quality of the games. “Some of the cricket has been fantastic. The opening games were very good. The Super Eights should make the competition more stiff and engrossing,” noted Lorgat.
The ICC chief also expressed his happiness over how the women’s cricket has gained in popularity since the last World T20. “Women’s cricket is the fastest growing sector for us. Last year’s World T20 was a great success. I would say that women’s cricket has taken off from there. The standards are improving as well. We have integrated women’s cricket as part of our system. Things are going according to our plans,” he pointed out.
He was of the opinion that the T20 format was a great tool to popularise women’s cricket. “No doubt they (women) play the other formats also, but just getting the opportunity to play alongside the men in the World T20, has given the sport a real boost and enhanced its profile,” he signed off.
DH News Service