ICC gives Bermuda the Thumbs Up for the Scotland Game

                                     

The BCB is extremely pleased to receive official notification granting Bermuda the right to host a 4-day ICC Intercontinental Cup game against Scotland starting on July 10, 2008 at the National Sports Centre.

 

This is the first opportunity for Bermuda to host the I Cup and for Bermudians to watch their own team play at home in international action since 2004. The approval followed a comprehensive process which included an initial visit from Mr. Richard Done, ICC High Performance Manager, four days of match play each week over three weeks, and a final inspection by Mr. Austin Ward, the former groundsman at King City, Canada, who was seconded by ICC to view the pitch during play last weekend. King City, Canada recieved their ODI status from the ICC last year.

 

The ability to secure the fixture is a combination of hard work from the Honourable Elvin James, J.P, MP, Minister of the Environment and Sports,the National Sports Centre Trustees, the stadium staff and the specialist groundsmen who have been working hard to prepare the wicket.

 

President of the BCB Reginald Pearman said: "This is a good day for Bermuda and a positive outcome as we work towards our venue securing full ODI status. This is a crucial element of continuing success at the higher levels."

 

"We recognise the importance of being able to showcase the Bermuda team to play its fixtures at home and we are all looking forward to this match. Scotland continues to be one of the top Associate teams and we are pleased to be able to host them," added Mr Pearman.

 

Minister James added his thanks to the ICC for their thorough review of the facility at the National Sports Centre and their confidence in the ability of the pitch to stand up to a four day International Match.  The Minister said, "The groundsmen have done their part.  The next step is for the players and coaches to make sure that the team is prepared to take on Scotland and show them how we can perform."  The Minister encouraged the public to come out in force next month to support the Bermuda squad.

 

"This is great news for Bermuda cricket," said ICC High Performance Manager Richard Done.

 

"I am delighted for the cricket fans of Bermuda, who will finally get the chance to see their team in action and it's great for the players, too, because every team likes to play with home advantage," said Mr Done.

 

"My congratulations to everyone involved in making this a reality," commented, National Coach, Mr Gus Logie. "The good work needs to continue on all fronts to make the event one of the best ever. My aim is to prepare those players selected so that our on field performance befits the occasion."

 

"I take this opportunity to challenge those players selected to make themselves available to train and properly prepare to represent their island with the will and passion needed to succeed," challenged Mr. Logie.