ICC launches World Cup logo, mascot and schedule

The International Cricket Council has officially launched the 2007 cricket World Cup logo, mascot and tournament schedule during a function in New Delhi where the World Cup trophy was also unveiled.

The aim of the programme was to urge the fans in India to visit the West Indies and enjoy the cricketing extravaganza in a carnival-like atmosphere. Malcom Speed, the ICC chief executive officer, said the 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."

Chris Dehring, the managing director and chief executive of ICC World Cup 2007 said India was an extremely important market as host of the next World Cup, as home to the largest TV audience to world sport and as the base for the tournament's 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 World Cup in India and offer a taste of what fans can expect in the Caribbean next year," said Dehring. "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. 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 accommodation to the fans."