Caribbean could get additional spot in Twenty20 Champions League
Published: Thursday | December 17, 2009
PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC):
There is the possibility that two teams from the Carib-bean could be included in the 2010 Champions League Twenty20 (CLT20) tournament.
Dean Kino, CLT20 Governing Council and director of legal and business affairs, told CMC Sport that consideration will be given to having a second Caribbean side in the tournament.
A number of countries had two teams in the inaugural tournament in India this year and only Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) from the Caribbean took part.
T&T lost in the final of the tournament to Australia's New South Wales (NSW) but won the hearts of the cricket world with enterprising play.
'Consideration will be given'
Kino said consideration would be given early in the new year when the CLT20 governing council meets.
He added that at the last tournament, T&T brought a lot to the event.
"T&T brought great value in terms of their cricketing skills, performances, the terrific spirit in which they played the game and the many talented cricketers on display, who had not been seen outside the Caribbean before."
Kino added that no venue was selected for the 2010 tournament and this would be done at the upcoming governing council meeting.
"We are yet to decide on a venue but what I can say is that the tournament in 2010 will be played around mid-September."
In light of this, the CLT20 Governing Council says it has already contacted the West Indies Cricket Board, indicating to them that they need to arrange for a regional Twenty20 tournament.
"They have been told that all participating countries must host a domestic tournament and do so early to mid-2010 in order to be considered for inclusion in the event and the dates have to be confirmed soon."
Kino said defending champions NSW will not automatically return to the tournament.
"The defending champions will not be allowed to return to the competition automatically, all teams must requalify."
All participating countries must host a domestic tournament and do so early to mid 2010, in order to be considered for inclusion in the event.
