Wednesday, May 17, 2006

In spite of the magnitude of the upcoming one-day clash between the West Indies and India, there will not be more than 9,500 spectators in the stands when the first one-day international match takes place at Sabina Park.

The reason has little to do with the rather dismal showing of the West Indies recently, but much more to do with preparations for the 2007 Cricket World Cup, which are running well behind schedule. More hammering is likely to be coming from the stands than taking place on the pitch, as work continues unabated to complete the Northern Stand.

At least the operation of the cranes will be stopped, showing some respect for the spectacle taking place out on the pitch. How much work will be done with construction personnel fully aware that a great game of cricket is being played behind them remains to be seen.

With the Northern Stand out of commission, the bulk of the spectators will be seated on the George Headley stand, which has a capacity of 7,300. The rest will be split between the recently - and temporarily - relocated Red Stripe Mound, which can accommodate 600 spectators, and a roll-away stand on the western side of the park, which will carry 800 spectators.

The total of 9,500 spectators is certain to be a bit of a disappointment to the Indian team, who are used to substantially greater numbers at their home internationals – up to 100,000, according to team officials.

Although no problems are expected, it has been decided that, should the Indian players have a problem with the conditions, the match will be halted.

Jamaica Cricket World Cup Ltd chairman Wayne Reid has admitted that the work on the stadium is a month or two behind schedule, but promises that the wait will be worth it as the stadium is readied for the World Cup. One can now only hope that it is indeed ready when the World Cup comes around.

Preparing the venues is only one of the many logistical nightmares facing Jamaica and the World Cup organisers as they prepare for the showcase event of world cricket.

For all the international exposure – positive or negative – that the event will generate for the region, it can only be hoped that everything will run smoothly from now on forward.

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