Shelly-Ann Thompson, Gleaner Writer

The last match in Group D of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 bowls off this morning at Sabina Park, Kingston, and much revelry is expected as the West Indies take on Ireland.

At least 3,000 Irish fans are expected at the venue celebrating their team's advance to the Super Eights while Caribbean nationals rally round the West Indies.

Yesterday, more than 13,500 of the available 19,000 tickets were booked for today's game, said Delroy Taylor, project officer in charge of ticketing.

The favoured party stand is sold out and only a few seats are vacant in the George Headley and West stands.

"We have been inundated with phone calls all week at the HQ as to where tickets are available. Even today (yesterday) was quite a big rush as persons tried to get tickets," said Mr. Taylor.

Second-best attendance

The projection of ticket sales for today's game has placed the match as potentially the second best attended CWC game at Sabina Park. The biggest crowd, estimated at 17,000, turned out for the opening West Indies vs Pakistan match.

"It's looking good, mainly because of the interest of the Irish," said Mr. Taylor.

Irish national, David Hall, also chief executive officer for Digicel Jamaica, said he would not miss the match for anything in the world.

"It is the first time that Ireland got into World Cup cricket and so far they have surpassed everyone's expectations. Plus, the moodat the matches has been spectacular," said Mr. Hall.

"But Ireland really need to have better luck and be at the top of their game to beat the West Indies," added Hall.

Meanwhile, there are a limited number of US$25 and US$55 tickets, in addition to a surplus of US$90 priced tickets available for today's match.

Tickets may be bought at the Perimeter Box Office, which is located at the South Gate entrance of Sabina Park, North Street.

shelly-ann.thompson@gleanerjm.com