ICC launches mascot for World Cup

ICC launches 2007 World Cup logo, mascot in India

NEW DELHI, July 27: The International Cricket Council officially launched the 2007 cricket World Cup logo, mascot and tournament schedule in India on Thursday.

The function included a stage presentation where the World Cup trophy was also unveiled. A delegation of the Caribbean, led by Prime Minister of Grenada Keith Mitchell, attended the function. The aim of the programme was to urge the fans in India to visit the Caribbean and enjoy the cricketing extravaganza in a carnival like atmosphere.

ICC CEO Malcom Speed said West Indies were long overdue to host the World Cup given their immense contribution to the game. "Given the passion West Indies have for the game and the tremendous commitment shown so far by the governments and people of the region, we are confident that they will host an excellent cricket World Cup," Speed said.

Managing Director and CEO of ICC World Cup 2007, Chrish Dehring, said India was an extremely important market in multiple respect, as incumbent host to the next World Cup, as home to the largest TV audience to world sport and as the base for the tournament for the official global partner and two of the official sponsors.

"To show our commitment to strengthening our relationship with India, we are working to highlight the World Cup in India and offer a taste of what fans can expect in the Caribbean," Dehring said.

"We want to make sure that the Indian public is fully informed and excited about the event. We also wish to encourage as many Indian fans as possible to travel to the Caribbean for the best cricket World Cup ever," Dehring said.

Ganguly still cherishing World Cup dream

Press Trust of India
Dubai, July 26, 2006

Despite a disappointing stint in English county cricket so far, Sourav Ganguly has not given up hope of playing for India in next year's World Cup in the Caribbean.
"Well, if I thought it would not be possible (playing in the World Cup), I would not have been playing now. That is a dream for me and I am chasing it. I need runs to back myself and if I can do so, it will be okay," Ganguly said.
The former captain, who is playing for Northamptonshire, believed that he could return to the national side if he had his performance to back him.
"Well, that is something I believe I should. That is the reason why I am here at the County cricket. I know I have to perform to come back to the team and I am trying to do so," he was quoted as saying by Gulf News.
Ganguly, who was injured in Northants' warm-up game against Pakistan XI and has been advised a two-week rest, however, admitted he was not impressive enough for the county.
"Yes, in England and at this time of the season, you need to survive the initial moments to go for a big score. I was not getting the start in the last few matches. But I have to make it big to be there," he said.

See Sourav Ganguly Profile