By Anthony Foster, Freelance WriterJAMAICA CRICKET Association (JCA) chief Jackie Hendriks yesterday disclosed that although his association would welcome two cricket venues for World Cup Cricket 2007, Sabina Park should be the main site.
Speaking at yesterday's press conference held at Sabina Park's boardroom, Hendriks outlined to journalists and members of the private sector why Sabina Park should be Jamaica's first choice when the bid begins.
"It would be better for Jamaica if we were to have a secondary venue in our bid," he said. However, he continued: "If we are serious about tackling the crime and violence that exists throughout the country, then let the redevelopment Sabina Park be the catalyst for the revitalisation of downtown Kingston, to which the government has committed itself."
Sabina Park and Greenfield in Trelawny are vying to host Jamaica matches in the 2007 event, however, Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, who will decide on the venue, has not done so yet.
USED AND TESTED ALREADY
The JCA president said Sabina Park has been used and tested already and, after a US$20 million refurbishment, Jamaica's top cricket venue could hold more than seated patrons.
"All of us must form an effective team and exert a national effort that will make Jamaica a prime contender for the choice matches in the tournament," Hendriks said.
In adding to what the president said, first vice president, George Sterling said that with time running out, Sabina Park was the best option.
"As far as a development site or a venue, is concern, we have not yet got off the ground. We are in fact far behind the other territories in the region," Sterling said.
The venues to host matches in the World Cup will be announced in July which, according to Sterling, there wouldn't be time to test the new venue.
"It must be tried and tested before we get any surprises in 2007."
