World Cup 2007 Officially Open

West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers has declared the World Cup open in Jamaica in a $2.6 million event that lasted over three hours.

The opening ceremony at the Trelawny Stadium included entertainers including Jimmy Cliff, Shaggy along with more than 2000 singers, dancers and performers.

The tournament lasts for 49 days involving 16 teams with 51 matches to be played. All 16 teams were present at the opening ceremony and took part in a parade through the stadium.

Over $800 million was spent on infrastructure in the Caribbean in bringing new and existing stadiums up to international standard for cricket’s biggest event.

The chief executive of the tournament committee Chris Dehring said “The world will see the best cricketers competing against the backdrop of one of the most blessed places on the planet. They will see exciting cricket inspired by the rhythm and soul of the West Indies.”

The first match of the tournament is on 13th March between the West Indies and Pakistan at Sabina Park in Jamaica, with the final to be played on 28th April at the Kensington Oval in Barbados.