Bridgetown, Barbados, April 26 – (www.bcacricket.org) - President of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), Dr. Julian Hunte, says he expects the upcoming ICC World T20 Tournament to be a showpiece event, highlighted by exciting displays by the players in the middle and total enjoyment by the fans off the field.

In welcoming the players, team officials, match officials, tournament organizers, media and fans, Dr. Hunte noted that they can all expect “a huge Caribbean party and a celebration of cricket”.

Dr. Hunte said: “The ICC World T20 is here! With just a few days to go before the first ball, I am delighted to welcome everyone from all across the cricket world to the Caribbean – where cricket is king. I know you will all be thrilled with the sights and scenes across the four countries hosting matches, as well as the hospitality of the fabulous people. I am also sure you will be glued to the action on the field as the world’s best cricketers provide us with superb entertainment.

“I want to encourage all the fans to play their part, to support their favourite team, and to do so with respect for each other and respect for the game. I also want to urge West Indies fans to come out and show love for their teams. In all international sporting events, the home team always plays a key part and we want to see our fans supporting our players in a big way. I urge everyone to ‘Bring It!’, and experience what will be a huge celebration of the game of cricket.”

The ICC World T20 bowls off on Friday, April 30 with a double-header featuring Sri Lanka and New Zealand as well West Indies taking on Ireland at the Guyana National Stadium.

The final of both the men’s and women’s competitions will be played at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Sunday, May 16.

Pakistan are the defending champions in the men’s section. England won the women’s title when the event was staged in England last summer.