Cricket W/Cup an economic gold mine

TT Local Organising Committee CEO head Anand Daniel, addressing a large gathering of cricketers at the Central Zone of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board at their presentation function on Saturday night at Presentation College, Chaguanas, made these observations.

He said, “It is like a dream coming true and as West Indians we must do all in our power to ensure that it is a success beyond the imagination of all those interested in the game of cricket.

“It is destined to be the most prestigious cricketing tournament to be held in the West Indies and the prospects of it being a huge and massive economic success with over $500 million flowing into the Caribbean would bring joy to the hearts of every West Indian,” he added.

He predicted that over 7,000 fans would be visiting Trinidad and Tobago to witness “these prestigious games and this mammoth economic undertaking is projected to gross US$300 million and generate US$500 in direct foreign exchange inflows into the region.”

Daniel said, “There is going to be a tremendous opportunity to showcase our country’s diversity, culture, natural resources, and economy to the visitors and the value of this cannot be underestimated.” He said that the World Cup presented a massive “tourism opportunity by allowing us access to markets like India, South Africa and Pakistan, with a significant percentage of television audience coming from those countries.”

Daniel said, “as a destination Trinidad and Tobago will receive enormous international exposure which can increase our brand image and commercial value.”

He said that there would be excellent opportunities that would be created for small and large entrepreneurs in the entertainment, transportation, accommodation, and the food and beverages industry.”

Daniel said that the new pitch at the Queen’s Park Oval would allow for even bounce and “would be noticeably faster.”

Readily seen, he said , would be a new Members’ pavilion, Media pavilion, and a Trini Posse stand, as well as a new television screen and new concession areas with bathroom facilities would be available.

He said Trinidad and Tobago would host eight of the 16 participating countries, “so what was originally a Brown Package has now turned to gold.”