Sobers to inaugurate World Cup

Kingston, Mar 2 (UNI) Legendary West Indian cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers will inaugurate the World Cup on March 11 at Greenfield Stadium, Trelawny (Jamaica).

Acknowledged throughout the cricketing world as the game's most accomplished player, the 70-year-old has accepted an invitation from the organisers of this edition of the showpiece event, World Cup official website reported.

''We were of the view that this signal honour is befitting of the greatest cricketer the world has ever seen and it was eagerly endorsed by the Cricket World Cup (CWC) Board and all of the other Local Organising Committees (LOCs),'' said ICC CWC 2007 Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Chris Dehring.

''It is a privilege and honour for us to have one of the pillars of West Indies cricket, who is revered the world over, declare this momentous event open in front of all of the Caribbean and global television audience,'' the CEO added.

All the LOCs have unanimously backed his name for this stellar moment as Sir Garry is considered to be the embodiment of cricket to the region and the most appropriate person to open the Caribbean''s greatest endeavour, Mr Dehring said.

Reacting to the invitation, Sir Sobers who was selected as one of five Wisden cricketers of the 20th century said, ''It is a great honour to declare the Cricket World Cup open and I am looking forward to the occasion. It will be phenomenal especially for those who have never got the opportunity to see a cricketing extravaganza of this magnitude.'' The legendary all-rounder's name was nominated by the Government and LOC of Jamaica, who are spearheading the opening ceremony's organisation.

UNI