All systems are in place for the start of the 2nd leg of the Test Cricket series between the West Indies and India at Sabina Park in Kingston. The action gets underway this Saturday July 30 and runs until August 3.
Plans were outlined at a media launch held Wednesday July 27 at Sabina Park. Among those in attendance at the launch were Sports and Culture Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, Director of Tourism Paul Pennicook, Charge d’ Affairs at the India High Commission Subbalaskshmi Mohan and executives of the Jamaica Cricket Association.
In bringing greetings to the proceedings, Courtney Francis, Chief Executive Officer of the Jamaica Cricket Association commended the ground staff at Sabina Park for ensuring that the field was in good shape and ready for the Test Cricket series.
“The JCA is pleased and honoured to be partnering with the West Indies Cricket Association for the series. I would like to thank the ground staff for ensuring the field is in good shape and ready for the series”, said Mr. Francis.
The Jamaica Tourist Board is a sponsor of the series. Director of Tourism Paul Pennicook spoke about the benefits of tourists coming into the island for sporting events such as the test cricket series.
“We at the JTB and the Ministry of Tourism are confident that major sporting events can help to achieve our objective of bringing more visitors to Jamaica. We welcome the India and West Indies teams to Jamaica for this second test series”, Mr. Pennicook said.
Mark Neita, Director of Marketing for the Jamaica Cricket Association stressed that the event was geared towards families.
“The event is a family oriented one. We are creating an area for the kids where there will be bounce-a-bouts, clowns, and face painting among other attractions. We are encouraging the parents to bring the children out to the games, enjoy the comradre and what cricket has to offer. Support the stars of the future”, said Mr. Neita.
Children under 12 will enter free accompanied by a paying adult. Persons over the age of 65 will enter free.
Minister Grange in her presentation welcomed the Indian team as a part of the extended family of Jamaica. She also encouraged persons to come out and support the series.
“I’m encouraging everyone to come out and enjoy the Test match. This match comes at a great time in our Emancipation and Independence celebrations. The people of India we see as part of the extended family, and cricket in the Caribbean is a part of our DNA. We are pleased to be hosting the test match and we expect healthy rivalry”, said Minister Grange.
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