Morgan to lead World XI

Eion Morgan to lead the World XI in hurricane relief match

LONDON, CMC – England white-ball captain Eoin Morgan has been named to lead the ICC World XI against West Indies, in the hurricane relief charity Twenty20 match at Lord’s in May.

The 31-year-old has played 200 One-Day Internationals and 72 Twenty20 Internationals, and is considered one of the world’s best short-form specialists.

Cricket’s world governing body, the ICC, along with the England and Wales Cricket Board, the MCC and Cricket West Indies, have collaborated on the venture which will raise funds for stadia damaged in the Caribbean during the passage of deadly Hurricanes Irma and Maria last September.

“I am delighted to captain the ICC World XI at Lord’s in May against the West Indies,”          said Morgan.

“The cricket family always comes together to support worthwhile causes and this one-off T20I, featuring some of the best players in the world will be a great spectacle at the home of cricket.

“I am sure the sporting public will come out in force and help raise money and awareness towards restoring parts of the Caribbean hit by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September last year, which ripped through many communities in this beautiful part of the world.”

The match is expected to bring together some of the biggest names in world cricket, with West Indies, the reigning T20 World champions, expected to boast their array of stars.

ECB president Giles Clarke, who is spearheading the coordination of the match, said he expected other players to back the venture with their presence.

“Two category five hurricanes in two weeks last year devastated parts of the Caribbean and the world of cricket was keen to show support with a fundraising initiative. What better way to do that than staging a world-class game at the Home of Cricket,” Clarke said.

“Eoin Morgan as captain is a wonderful first name on the ICC World XI team sheet and in due course we’ll have more players from around the world lending their support to what I’m sure will be a highly entertaining and competitive day of cricket at Lord’s in May.”

The game, carded for May 31, will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.