ICC launches WC '07 logo in India
The aim was to urge the Indian fans to visit the Caribbean islands and enjoy the extravaganza.
The International Cricket Council on Thursday officially launched the 2007 cricket World Cup logo, mascot and tournament schedule in India.
The function included a stage presentation where the World Cup trophy was also unveiled.
A delegation of the Caribbean, led by Prime Minister of Grenada Dr Keith Mitchell, attended the function.
The aim of the programme was to urge the fans in India to visit the Caribbean islands and enjoy the cricketing extravaganza in a carnival like atmosphere.
ICC CEO Malcom Speed said West Indies were long overdue to host the World Cup given their immense contribution to the game.
"Given the passion West Indies have for the game and the tremendous commitment shown so far by the governments and people of the region, we are confident that they will host an excellent cricket World Cup," Speed said.
Managing Director and CEO of ICC World Cup 2007, Chrish Dehring, said India was an extremely important market in multiple respect, as incumbent host to the next World Cup, as home to the largest TV audience to world sport and as the base for the tournament for the official global partner and two of the official sponsors.
"To show our commitment to strengthening our relationship with India, we are working to highlight the cricket World Cup in India and offer a taste of what fans can expect in the Caribbean next year," Dehring said.
"We want to make sure that the Indian public is fully informed and excited about the event. We also wish to encourage as many Indian fans as possible to travel to the Caribbean for the best cricket World Cup ever," Dehring said, adding "the first phase for ticket application would close on July 31."
Dehring also sought to allay apprehensions over accommodation in the Caribbean, saying the Governments of the nine sovereign states which would host World Cup matches had met recently to tackle the issue.
"There would be a wide range of accommodations for the international visitors. There will be home stay programme as well as cruise ship to accommodate thousands of visitors expected to travel to the Caribbean. The Governments are working together with the private sector and we are confident of providing good accomodation to each of the fans."
The World Cup would be held in West Indies from March 11 next year across the nine West Indian countries.