Digicel, WICB forge new cricket plan

ST JOHN’S: The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and Digicel, one of the leading mobile telecommunications providers in the Caribbean, conducted an intensive strategy session this week mapping out the elements for a new era in regional cricket. Many exciting initiatives and proposals were discussed during the meeting and the WICB is very impressed with the level of energy, professionalism and dedication that Digicel is bringing to the table. “They have shown us that they are committed, sincere and dynamic partners and we are confident that they will have the same vitalising impact on West Indies cricket as they have shown in the Caribbean telecommunications industry,” remarked Roger Brathwaite, chief executive officer of the WICB.

“Have no doubt, our partnership with Digicel represents a new era for West Indies cricket,” he added. Sarah Gill, Commercial Director for the Digicel Group, disclosed that her company takes enormous pride in being the official main sponsor of the West Indies cricket team and is delighted to share its vision with the WICB in Antigua this week. “We are committed to further strengthening our support of communities in Antigua and throughout the Caribbean,” she said. “We believe in the future of the Caribbean and, in particular, West Indies cricket. Our intention is to enable West Indies cricket to get back to the top of world Test cricket and to build on the success of the team in the ICC Champions Trophy.”

The multi-million US-dollar sponsorship deal with the WICB is for five years with an option to renew and will officially come into operation for the tour to Australia for the World Series Cricket limited-overs competition between January and February next year. Digicel will also be the event sponsors of the home Test and limited-overs series, and the official mobile and communications provider of the WICB. With new programmes in place to improve the team’s current and future performance, Digicel’s sponsorship represents the largest deal ever done with the WICB. It’s the first ever home-and-away sponsorship secured by the WICB and incorporates unprecedented incentives to raise the players’ performances and sponsorship of select junior teams. (CMC)