WICB Media Release
KINGSTON, Jamaica (WICB) — Despite a Sunday start to the first Test between West Indies and New Zealand, head of the Jamaica Cricket Association, Wilford ‘Billy’ Heaven, believes it will turn out to be a success.
The Test, which will be West Indies opener Chris Gayle’s 100th for the regional team, is scheduled to get under way on Sunday, June 8 and end on Thursday, June 12.
“I believe starting the match on Sunday comes with and upside as well as its downside,” said Heaven.
“Starting on a Sunday, it allows for more people to come out and hopefully set the tone, as it is more like a family day.
“On the other hand, it takes the other four days into the work week, which could prove to be a bit of a challenge.
“However, given the occasion, and with Gayle being one of the centres of attraction, people may very well come out and show their support.”
Best Batsman
Gayle, regarded in some quarters as one of the best batsmen of the modern era, has been a staple of the West Indies’ Test team since making his debut in Trinidad in 2000.
He averages 42.01 in the format and has so far scored 15 hundreds and 34 half-centuries.
New Zealand are scheduled to play three Tests and two Twenty20 Internationals while on tour.
The second Test will be played in Trinidad at Queen’s Park Oval and the third in Guyana.
The Twenty20 International series, in the meantime, will be played at Windsor Park in Dominica.