The series of matches will run from April 17 to April 24 at the CBFS stadium in Sharjah, starting at 3pm. Night games will be floodlit. All teams will play each other twice and the top two nations will contest the finals for the prestigious trophy.
India, who defeated Australia in the recently concluded Test series, will be looking for a repeat performance at the Coca-Cola Cricket Cup.
As first time sponsors of the event Coca-Cola is reiterating its global commitment to major sporting events. Coca-Cola Gulf's Region External Affairs Manager, Bashar Al Kadhi, said ``Coca-Cola has a rich history of involvement with sport and sports fans in particular. We are very happy to be involved in this event and look forward to refreshing the fans during their support for their teams.''
Coca-Cola activities will include a daily ``Coca-Cola Fan of the Match'', in addition to media competitions which will give the fans the unique opportunity to win bats and balls signed by players.
CBFS Chief Organizing Executive, Qasim Noorani, said ``It's a matter of great pride that Coca-Cola has joined hands with the CBFS in the region to promote cricket and I am convinced that this is only the beginning of a long and enduring relationship.''
The Man of The Match and Man of the Series awards are sponsored by Ary Gold, while the Fastest Fifty, Best Bowler and Best Fielder awards are sponsored by Shell Marketing. Kiptly and Kitcol Adhesives will sponsor a Hit a Six & Win competition for the players, while MRF Tyres sponsor the Hit the Board Challenge.
Veteran Indian player Pankaj Roy, spinner Shivlal Yadav and batsman Brijesh Patel have all been named beneficiaries of the match and will receive US$35,000 each, taking the tally of CBFS beneficiaries up to 107 players who have collectively received US$3.5 million so far.
Source: Official Press Release
Contributed by CricInfo Management
help@cricinfo.com
Date-stamped : 05 Apr1998 - 20:42