ST.GEORGE’S, Grenada, CMC-Prime Minister Tillman Thomas says the world has been put on notice of a resurgence in West Indies cricket following their 36 run win over Sri Lanka to secure the ICC Twenty/20 trophy.
In a congratulatory message to the team following Sunday’s dramatic final in Colombo the Grenadian Prime Minister said the win will stimulate greater regional interest in the sport.
It was the first world title for the West Indies since the 50-over World Cup triumph under Clive Lloyd in 1979.
“It is our hope that this victory signals the resurgence of West Indies cricket, and serves to put the world on notice that the West Indies are clawing back to the top of the international cricket rankings” Prime Minister Thomas said in his message.
“We believe that this remarkable victory would stimulate greater interest in cricket in the region”.
The West Indies, restricted to 137-6 after electing to bat, hit back to bowl Sri Lanka out for 101 and silence a sell-out crowd of 35,000 at the Premadasa stadium that included President Mahinda Rajapakse.
Prime Minister Thomas, who is preparing to call general elections, says the victory was timely following Caribbean success at the Olympics in August.
“This title has added another jewel in the sporting crown worn by the Caribbean this year, coming on the heels of sterling performances at the London Olympics” said Prime Minister Thomas.
“I also take this opportunity to congratulate our West Indies women’s team on reaching the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s 20/20 tournament, and join with the people of the Caribbean to wish them many more successes”.
