A disappointing sprinkling of fans sit ina stand during the Super Eight match between the West Indies and New Zealand at the new Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua in March. Antigua has reported revenues of US$3 million from the games. - Reuters

WORLD CUP Antigua and Barbuda Inc., (WCAI) the local organising committee (LOC) for the Cricket World Cup staged for the first time in the Caribbean earlier this year, has reported that its revenue from ticket sales for the event should exceed US$3 million.

WCAI said more than 44,000 spectators watched the six Super Eight matches played at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.

"Direct ticket sales from the outlet were US$2.797 and total ticket revenue could increase to US$3 million when the sales of hospitality packages are accounted for," the LOC said in a statement.

"The direct expenditure incurred, for coordinating and managing this event stands at just over US$1.5 million." the release added.

The LOC said it was responsible for ensuring that the physical facilities were 'match-ready', and providing the personnel to mange key functional areas such as cricket operations, event management, transportation, venue operations, volunteer programme, VIP/ protocol programme, safety and security, and media and communications.

George Goodwin, managing director and CEO of WCAI, said tha the final accounts are still being reconciled, he believes that there will be little difference in the final accounts.

"We have settled most of our accounts with regards to works and services provided during the tournament and we are working with ICC CWC 2007 to reconcile the final accounts," he said.

"And despite the low turn out, we are pleased to show that the ticket revenue will cover our match day expenses and yield a surplus."

- CMC