Planning my World Cup itinerary
The start of the World Cup is less than three weeks away. My tickets have been bought, my hotels are booked, the itinerary has been worked out and my packing is, erm, well behind schedule.
I鈥檓 taking in 19 games - probably eight that will involve England - in three countries on a trip that will span 49 days and I am currently gathering some thoughts on the key games, the biggest stories and the key personalities.
But I would like to get some ideas from you, too. Is there someone you think I should interview or somewhere I should go in-between games? Do you have any first-hand travel tips? If you're travelling to the Caribbean what do you expect to be the highlight?
Have a look at my initial thoughts and let me have yours.
St Lucia 鈥 Group C
鈥淪t Lucia is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean,鈥 says my guide book, 鈥渨ith some of its finest resorts.鈥 I鈥檒l try not to rub it in.
14 March 鈥 Kenya v Canada
, saying there is no place for minnows at the World Cup but both these sides did well in South Africa four years ago, with Kenya reaching the semi-finals and hitting the fastest World Cup century ever.
16 March 鈥 England v New Zealand
Because of the seeding method, the only thing riding on this match is the number of points taken through to the second round but it will help England discover whether their recent good form is for real. The four games in Australia recently between these two were evenly split.
18 March 鈥 England v Canada
This is potential banana-skin number one for England, who have a history of slipping against minor sides. Witness their loss to Zimbabwe in 1992 and a four years ago.
20 March 鈥 New Zealand v Kenya
Captain Steve Tikolo believes in being denied regular fixtures against the top teams since their impressive display in South Africa four years ago. Here is their first chance to gain some revenge, and to mark my mother鈥檚 60th birthday in style, although they probably don鈥檛 realise that.
22 March - New Zealand v Canada
When Anderson Cummins last faced New Zealand in a World Cup he was a 25-year-old sporting the colours of the West Indies, . Now, approaching his 41st birthday, the seam bowler gets another shot with Canada.
24 March - England v Kenya
Adam Hollioake was supposedly the only person who realised the importance of run rate when England coach David Lloyd told his batsmen to 鈥渉ave a net鈥 against Kenya in 1999. They dawdled to a win and it cost them a place in the second round.
Guyana 鈥 Super Eight (predicted match-ups)
鈥淚n 1978 Guyana was the scene of the mass suicide and murder of more than 900 members of a religious cult.鈥 I don鈥檛 think the tourist board wrote this guidebook.
28 March 鈥 South Africa v Sri Lanka
The likes of Shaun Pollock, Mark Boucher and Herschelle Gibbs are bound to be asked repeatedly about the that saw them tie with Sri Lanka and crash out of the 2003 World Cup after the group stage.
30 March 鈥 Pakistan v England
Now it gets serious for England, who will probably need to win at least three of their six Super Eight games to advance to the semi-finals. James Anderson will be hoping to channel the spirit of .
1 April 鈥 West Indies v Sri Lanka
This is my first chance to see the side bidding to become the first ever to win the World Cup on home soil. Sri Lanka may dispute that claim as they triumphed in the tournament they co-hosted with India and Pakistan in 1996.
3 April 鈥 Pakistan v South Africa
These two sides know each other well as hosts South Africa triumphed 3-1 in their but Pakistan were ravaged by injury then and conditions here could suit them far better.
7 April - India v South Africa
Reporting on India games is always fun, partly because of the hoards of reporters who follow the team around, all looking for their own edge or exclusive. Captain Rahul Dravid doesn鈥檛 make press conferences as enjoyable as Sourav Ganguly used to, though.
9 April - Pakistan v New Zealand
I date the birth of modern, big-hitting, 50-over cricket to the , when a 22-year-old Inzamam-ul-Haq came in to bat in Auckland with the match apparently lost, and hit 60 from 37 balls to clinch a place in the final.
Barbados 鈥 Super Eight (predicted match-ups)
鈥淏arbados is known as 鈥楲ittle England鈥 in the Caribbean,鈥 according to my book, which is good because it will stage three key matches for Michael Vaughan鈥檚 boys.
11 April - England v India
I used to be surprised by the number of India fans with English accents but it sometimes seems that more fans travel from the UK than the subcontinent to watch Sachin Tendulkar and Co.
13 April - Australia v Pakistan
This is a rematch of one of the most lop-sided World Cup finals ever, when . Inzamam, Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar remain in the Pakistan side, with Australia retaining Adam Gilchrist, Ricky Ponting and Glenn McGrath. Damien Fleming will be summarising from the commentary booth.
15 April - India v Pakistan
Did somebody say there鈥檚 a World Cup going on? Many fans of these two countries will happily watch their sides exit at the Super Eight stage, as long as they come up with a victory over their arch-rivals. Defeat, like that for , will make a purge almost inevitable.
17 April - South Africa v England
There isn鈥檛 much love lost between these sides after an ill-tempered tour by England in 2004/05. after his testimony saw Vaughan fined his match fee for criticising umpires鈥 decisions during a Test in Johannesburg.
21 April - West Indies v England
It could be crunch time for both these sides in the final game of the Super Eight stage. England have only lost once in four World Cup meetings with the Caribbean side but that was the most important of the fixtures - .
St Lucia
25 April 鈥 Semi-final - 1st v 4th from Super Eight
This is the game from which an upset could come as one of the longest sporting tournaments in the world finally reaches the knockout stages. An inconsistent team could sneak into fourth place in the Super Eight and get a winner-takes-all shot at the team of the tournament, at which stage all bets are off.
Barbados
28 April 鈥 Final
Four years ago, like England, I left the tournament after the group stages so this will be my first World Cup final. Will England upset the odds and begin the comparisons with 1966? Will romantic favourites the West Indies seal the renaissance of cricket in the region or will that Australian juggernaut have got back on track? It will all come to a head in Bridgetown.
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All I can say is don't eat anything you can't spell or say, anything bigger than your head, or tomatoes !!
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Martin,
Sounds like a cracking trip. I myself shall also be out in St. Lucia for the group games after being there on the last England tour. Great place.
England will get through the group but I am a little bit wary of an Australian playing for Canada (John Davison) who could upset the English applecart.
Some may remember Davison's century against the Windies at the last world cup (off 67 balls I believe). Hopefully Plonker or Jimmy will snare him quickly otherwise we could be witnessing Namibia all over again.
A trip to the Pitons is a must. We did it by mini-bus coming back by catamaran, with free rum punch thrown in (how good is that?)
Great golf course north of Rodney Bay and Pigeon Island is nice and relaxing. Hire a car and visit the rain forest inland.
Have a great time in St. Lucia and wet the appetite for the rest of your trip. One tip from me, if you get the chance have some time in Tobago. I got married there and it is beautiful.
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I honeymooned in St. Lucia, a great place.
Take a flight to Dominica, our flight was on a 12 seater jet last one in shut the door - no cabin service! From memory you land on a really small airport nearly touching the tree tops. The tour around the island is fantastic.
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I will also be in St Lucia for the semi then hope to get across to Barbados for the final.
However currently ALL flights between St Lucia and Barbados are full between the 26th and midday on the 28th April - so no way to get across in time.
There are no ferries and its a long swim (110 miles).
How about the 大象传媒 arranging a special Barmy Army plane to help the fans across.
Otherwise there will be many of us who will miss at least the first half of the final. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
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You've got to swin with the turtles, and amazing experience! And you get paid for all this?! Lifes not fair!
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Well..mate, Have great time in Caribbean Islands! But dont be a loser, if you are waiting for Engalnd to play on April 28. In that case you better book your tickets back soon after S8 stage.
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Do you need any help with anything? I could carry your bags round for you if you want. I'd do it for free to save you having to tip any pesky bell boys and I could sleep on the floor. I don't snore or sleep walk.
Please.
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What No Irish Games.....disgusted!
If you make one talk to Kenny Carroll diamond of a Guy.
Though I would avoid the usual cricket questions...think outside the box when it comes to talking to the players, maybe take a funny edge.........also never gargle with TCP, you get ill, Quick!
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If you're in a position to do it, it would be great to hear something of the Bermuda team at some point. Somehow we managaed to qualify and I think it's more damage control for us.
Apart from that, going anywhere in that part of the world is great, the people are friendly and the lifestyle amazing. you should swing through Bermuda on your way back to England.
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The most enthusiastic cricket fans are in Montserrat.Though our island in the Leewards will not host matches,you should visit this colony and interview Basil Chambers who is with ZJB radio on FM 95.5.People in ALL islands know Basil;he knows his cricket.
Some years ago the West Indies played RSA in Montserrat under the active volcano;a first for sure.
Listen to ZJB on "www.zjb.gov.ms"
Staying in Montserrat myself and will get to games in Antigua and St.Kitts.
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Big Chef Steakhouse in St Lucia does the best steak I've ever tasted...
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St. Lucia: Quite rugged and less developed than Barbados.
Pitons are a must. Go and have a drink at Ladera resort which nestles between the 2 and watch the sun set behind them. Truly stunning.
Rainforest Waterfall near the town of Anse La Raye on the west coast. Exceptionally refreshing in the heat of the day and you'll never have felt as clean when you come out.
Sulpher Springs. Smelly, but worth it simply for the fact that you're standing in a Volcano.
Pigeon Point. Interesting maritime and war history and amazing view across Rodney Bay.
Suspended gondola ride through the Rainforest canopy in the middle of the island. Knowledgeable guides on all flora and fauna (including Tarantulas, Boa Constrictors, and The Fleur De Lance - 4th most poisonous snake in the world). A unique experience takes you up to nearly 2000 feet with views across to Martinique 20 miles away. Breathtaking.
If you hire a car take some change with you. The locals enjoy stopping you and giving you directions even if you know where you're going.
Barbados:
West coast beaches. Take your pick as there are several good ones.
Snorkelling / scuba diving with leather back turtles at the Folkstone Marine reserve. Best done along with a catarmaran trip up the west coast.
Surfing. Surfers Point at Inch Marlow on the south coast for beginners / intermediate. The Soup Bowl at Bathsheba on the east coast for the more experienced. Both great fun.
Wildlife reserve and signal station in the north of the island are both interesting. Barbados green monkeys are very light fingered.
Horse riding through the surf on the east coast is unforgettable.
Get off the beaten track to see the best of both islands. You wont regret it.
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1966? I thought it would've been 2003 as its more recent!!
Well if England are in the final and the final goes deep into the night ( a bit like extra time in 1966 and 2003)
I predict England will win the cricket world cup for the first time :-)
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Run this by me again..........they call this work!
With pay and everything!
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Soggy Dollar bar if you can get there- immense! I'll be in Antigua for the super 8's, one of the better islands i think.
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You'll love St Lucia - I started going a couple of years ago when a mate moved there to work. It's just a great place - locals friendly - and any game of cricket - beach or other - usually turns into a 30 a side game.
Points of interest - take in the Captains Cellar at Pigeon island - you can see and taste the sea through every door !!
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Love the predictions! (especially from a pakistani fans point of view)...we all believe we can get past the first group stage but in the current climate with injuries and the drug testing to take place, its very hit & miss whether we`ll get past the super eights. If we do there are some mouthwatering contests awaiting us!
Even before that i can see alot of giantkillings (something more familiar to the F.A Cup rather than World Cup Cricket!), many people will underestimate the sides and i can see some surprising results (Nostradamus would be proud of me!)
Love the way you summarized the India V Pakistan game, but to most Pakistan fans its not about beating your rival, we want the world cup in our hands. India have beaten us 4 times in the World Cup. We have a heavily superior record outside the world cup, we can beat them if we were playing with blindfolds on.
Now it is about the world cup...Come April 28th..i hope i hear inzamam ul haq giving a post match conference next to the trophy talking about how the team has triumphed against all odds!
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Are you going to trinidad? If you are send a reply and i will give you some key things to see and do whilst you are there. The best bit of advice i can give is an obvious one though. You have probably travelled wide and far so the perils of the sunshine i'm sure you are well aware. In the Caribbean they are much nearer to the equator and so the angle of sun is much more acute than say oz or india. It may only be 28 degrees but the sun is much lower in the sky at daytime so don't get burned.
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Love the predictions! (especially from a pakistani fans point of view)...we all believe we can get past the first group stage but in the current climate with injuries and the drug testing to take place, its very hit & miss whether we`ll get past the super eights. If we do there are some mouthwatering contests awaiting us!
Even before that i can see alot of giantkillings (something more familiar to the F.A Cup rather than World Cup Cricket!), many people will underestimate the sides and i can see some surprising results (Nostradamus would be proud of me!)
Love the way you summarized the India V Pakistan game, but to most Pakistan fans its not about beating your rival, we want the world cup in our hands. India have beaten us 4 times in the World Cup. We have a heavily superior record outside the world cup, we can beat them if we were playing with blindfolds on.
Now it is about the world cup...Come April 28th..i hope i hear inzamam ul haq giving a post match conference next to the trophy talking about how the team has triumphed against all odds!
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I've just come back from Barbados and had a good look at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown whilst I was there. The West Indies is buzzing with excitement for this tournament.
The main highways around Barbados and especially Bridgetown, are under some heavy construction work at the moment in preparation for the Cricket and it looks like it is all a long way from completion.
My top tip for the Caribbean is: Don't swim in the sea and then get straight into your hotel swimming pool. This (according to the Bajan doctor I saw) is the biggest cause of Ear infections, which several others and me suffered with for the duration of our stay. Ouch!
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St Lucia is a great place to visit. Its definatly worth trying to climb Petite Piton between games. Most guidebooks say stay well clear but I would recomend it. Fantastic views and even better if you chew on the coca plants at the top!!
Its a bit of an adventure but such fun if you can fit it around all those games
Watch the Rum portions - HUGE!!
Jez
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Key Largo in Rodney Bay (near the Marina) is great for pizza. We'll be going back this summer.
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Well, I'm also going to be out there, as TV crew. I fly out to St Vincent tomorrow (01/03/07) and after stints in St Kitts, Grenada and Jamaica end up in Barbados for the final at the end of April. Not a bad job I guess but then it will make up for some of the, um, less salubrious places we stayed at during the Champions Trophy in India last year :-) Cheers!
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Reading this article and the comments are making me really jealous. I was all set to head out to the Caribbean when a change in job meant I couldn't take the time off work.
I had planned to attend a couple of the minnow versus minnow games, as in my opinion, the emerging teams should be supported, not knocked. Watching one day cricket is a fantastic way to meet people from different back grounds who share a similar interest. The more countries that are represented in the earlier part of the competition the better.
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Very best wishes for your time in St.Lucia. It is a very beautiful island, with lovely beaches.
However, having just returned from a cruise that visited for a day, I would suggest you allow plenty of time to get to the cricket ground. The major roadworks, particularly from Castries, are a very long way from being completed, as are the new stands at the Kensington Oval, Barbados!
Enjoy
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I suggest you don't go over the top on the expenses. Remember who is ultimately funding your trip - the licencee fee payers
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I'm not sure why Scots bother paying their licence fees - the English Broadcasting Corporation strikes again....
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Martin, assuming that you're staying in the Rodney Bay area for the initial group games then...
Spinnakers is a cracking restaurant on the beach. Good food, good beer and a great view.
The rotis from the Lime Bar are excellent.
In the evening, head to the Triangle... it's a wooden shack frequented by the locals. Rum and coke in a 50-50 mix is the drink to have.
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Why has Micheal Vaughan been given the captaincy when he himself admits that he is not fully fit?
Surely if we are to stand any chance at all of winning we need the strongest and Fittest team.
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I'm also off to St Lucia for the group stages and have been counting the days for months now - although my enthusiasm did wane during the early stages of the CB series in Oz!
Each little step has added to the anticipation; applying for match tickets, booking the flights and hotel, the tickets arriving a week ago, the flight tickets arriving this week, treating ourselves to a helicopter transfer from the airport in St Lucia...........
And if it all goes wrong at least I'm somewhere sunny!
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Having just come back from the Caribbean, I'd strongly recommend that you only take hand luggage. I was astounded at the mountains of lost luggage at each airport I went to. There seemed to be as much lost luggage at Antigua last week as there is at Heathrow!
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BermyMelvs,
Unfortunately, Canada and Kenya are likely to be the only "minnows" I'll get to see, unless one of them gets further than the group stages, which you can never completely rule out.
Did you see my colleague Jamie's interview with Stefan Kelly earlier this week?
BarmyDave,
I witnessed Davison's ton against the Windies - admittedly filled with chances on a smallish ground but nevertheless breath-taking. He's Canadian-born, so do go casting aspertions. I doubt I'll get to do the marriage thing, although there's a better chance of that than of me playing a decent round of golf!
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When in St. Lucia (if you have the time) take one of the boat tours down the west coast from Castries or Rodney Bay to Soufriere. It really is a fun trip.
If you are here on a Friday there is a fish fry in a small village called Anse La Raye. You would enjoy that also.
Sounds like an advertisment for St. Lucia but you will probably have a limited amount of time and St. Lucia is a great place to relax.
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Why not track down some of the eighteen rebel West Indian cricketers who toured apartheid South Africa twice in the early eighties and who to this day are not, perhaps wrongly, forgiven by their own people. Truly, al the things that have happened to them individually since those tours could easily fill a book. And to think who almost got on the plane to Joburg....
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Sounds like a great itinery you have there Martin.
I used to live in the Caribbean, and be aware though: There used to be three internal airlines - Liat, Caribbean Star, and Bwee (BWIA). They have all recently merged, and in true Caribbean style they have halfed the number of inter-island flights a day as they are trying to cut costs by cutting and consolidating identical flights.
People are being bumped off flights left right and centre, so make sure you get to the airport VERY early (min 3 hrs), and start praying. It is going to be chaos, i guarantee it. If you dont belive me, then talk to anyone who tried to fly to Trinidad last week for teh T&T Carnival from the other islands.
My top tip of where to do - take a boat day trip around the Grenadines for the day - its incredible, they leave from St Lucia or St Vincent, and you wont see better and clearer waters, swin with dolphines, see the fish, snorkel and relax. If you get a chance, then stay over at Raffles in the tiny island of Canuaon (pronounce Can-Won) - although if the Beeb are paying, the nighly room charge is more than a couple of TV licence fees!
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TAKE A TAXI TO THE JALOUSIE PLANTATION HOTEL (BETWEEN THE PITONS), THEY HAVE FANTASTIC SNORKELLING OFF THE BEACH, WHICH IS AVAILABLE TO NON RESIDENTS. THE SCENERY ON THE BEACH IS THE BEST ON THE ISLASND.
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In St Lucia, get yourself a bottle of Banana Ketchup, I know it sounds disgusting but its savioury rather than sweet and better than Tomato ketchup. Its the only place in the world I have ever seen it.
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Hi,
On your Trinidad stop you could enlist local help to try the following (1+2 will not be on offer at your hotel!).
1. Eat Cascadoo (strange local fish)
Said anyone who has eaten Cascadoo will always return to Trinidad.
2. Drink Pachoo water (local drink from under the sea)
Delicacy prevents me telling you the effect of this unique local drink.
3.Visit Asa Wright Wildlife santuary
They have helpfully put preserved copies of the many local poisonous snakes in jars for you to study prior to walking arond this fabulaous wildlife reserve. Richard Attenborough filmed a bird here with the longest known mating ritual in the world.
Most Trinidadians have not tried 1+2!
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The roads in St Lucia are terrible, dont expect to get anywhere quick. In your free time do the Pirate ship trip from Rodney Bay down to the Pitons. It is the only way to see the majesty of these fantastic mountains.
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Go easy on the expenses claims.
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Well, while you're there take a trip to the far more beautiful South of the island. If you're on my licence-fee money, stay at La Haut Plantation near Soufriere a wonderful ex-plantation overlooking a typical gritty caribbean town. Take in the sulphur-springs and loads of local culture. Get "Chris" the taxi-driver to take you up through the mountains in his car, I swear if it's your first-time you'll expect to see David Attenborough there, it's tear-wellingly beautiful and very, very hilly! If you're on a bigger budget, eat at Dasheene. Chris'll take you there.
Have a great trip you lucky, lucky, bl**der!
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Hi folks
You will love it down here in the Caribbean. The cricket will be out of this world, the food will be "the best" and the people will bowl you over. Just remember don't drink too much rum -- its good for the spirit but...
enjoy the greatest show on earth,
Philip,
Barbados
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Hello Martin,
I hope you have a great time and the cricket turns out to be exciting. Maybe, just maybe England might "come good".
Hopefully, you'll have time to keep your blog up-to-date with pictures and reports NOT published in the normal media.
I've included your RSS feed in my blog at Yahoo (see link with this post) and will follow your progress/posts daily.
Best regards
AnnC
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My first thoughts are 'I want your job'. Jealousy aside, good luck trying to talk up England v the minnows clashes - they are a total waste of space. The tournament only starts effectively in the Super Eights. Best of luck anyhow, you lucky so and so
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A shame that my comments don't seem to have been posted. I'll ask again - who is the dedicated reporter for the Scottish games in the World Cup?
Surely you must have one?
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You'll have a great trip. St Lucia is a great place. The Pitons are a good bet, bit smelly though due to the sulphur. Check out the Banana plantations.
If you are looking to interview anyone, just try any random local. They are the nicest people you would want to meet and cricket runs through their veins. Imagine what they are going to be like during the world cup.
Shame your not going to Antigua. Shirley's Heights on a Sunday night is the most happening place to watch the sunset and mix with the locals, whist listening to live Reggae and steel bands.
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Typhoon (reply 12), Just because Martin's itinerary does not includea trip to St Kitts, where the Scotland team will be based, does not mean e will not providing full coverage of Scotland's games. Assuming you are in the UK, you will be able to hear live commentary on all three matches played by Craig Wright's side on TMS or streamed on this website. Test Match Special's Simon Mann will be providing comment and analysis of how the Scots are gettting on for this website and, of course, we will have further blog entries from Paul Hoffmann.
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Since u r a seasoned traveller am disturbed to note you are not in antigua for their leg of super 8's. The reason for my concern is because I am. What is wrong with antigua?
Have tkts for several games ( incl Eng v aus if they get thru) in party stand which entitles me to "a combo meal and eight (yes 8) free beverages". Being a little cynical have been trying to ascertain what constitiutes a "beverage" but no one knows. Am I wrong to assume copious amounts of alcohol?
All replies appreciated.
KC
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Couldn't agree with Nick Jeremiah more; I stayed at the Jalousie Plantation Hotel on my honeymoon, and the beach truly is idyllic, nestled directly between the Pitons - a must see (stop me if I start sounding too travel brochure-ish...).
Also, if my licence fee stretches this far, rather than take a cab ride from the airport to your destination, on roads which are, to be as diplomatic as possible, beyond shocking, why not do what we did and take a helicopter ride to Jalousie, which takes 8 minutes instead of an hour or more, and flies directly between the Pitons - breathtaking!
One final thing - although I love the island in general, if visiting Soufriere, whilst it may be an "authentic" village, beware the street hawkers...
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In St Lucia you should check out the local cricket ground on the outskirts of Soufriere - really basic facilities, but you'll struggle to match the sheer passion for the game you'll see there. The beach here is famous, not least for its view of the Pitons, and a swim after dark is a fantastic experience.
Also worth a visit to the world's only drive-in volcano...
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I live here having spent most of my life in London... beautiful island, friendly people and lots of alcohol..... try to see the entire island it will give you a different outlook of the Caribbean
See you at the Piton Party Stand
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One of the main challenges for all persons attending the matches in different locations is getting between the islands. I see Toby's note below and can confirm it's accuracy.
Two of my friend's and I (we live in Barbados) have chartered a flight and it's costing about 150% more than the commercial flights, but there is no option if you want to get there. Tom's comments about the validity of a so-called booking is also true, and it is only going to be worse with the demand during this period (more than we have ever experienced in the past just with the team & media crowd & Officials and alickadoos) alone.
We actually have one ticket (for the semis) and two seats (one to go with the ticket) available on the flight if any body is interested (at cost no mark up!).
Don't jut visit the Pitons (not to be missed) drink plenty too! The St Lucian Beer is one of the best in the islands.
I've lived here (from UK) for about 25 years and would be happy to answer any questions that any one might have!
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if i were you i would keep an eye open for kieron pollard from the west indies, i know he is only 19 and spent some of the english summer playing village cricket last year but he hits the ball absolutely miles, can you imagine, if he plays in the tournament, which i really hope he does, from village cricket to the world cup in less than a season!!! plus he has been consistently making runs since he went back, pretty much always at more than 1 a ball as well, including a couple of 100's including 6 6's a piece!
good luck KP
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Why are you not comming to St. Kitts? All the best games are to be there!! There is a group of us flying out on the 9 March for a fortnight in St. Kitts then we will follow Scotland up to Antigua!! Please remember it is not only England playing in the tournament.
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Does anyone know if the 大象传媒 will be doing a 'Fantasy Cricket World Cup' competition like they did in 2003?? I have seen The Sun are doing one but like a true Scotsman I'd rather not have to delve into my pocket and pay for the pleasure! :-)
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I hope you arrive in the West Indies slightly more culturally prepared than your guide book snippets suggest. The West Indies is a complex and fascinating place of crosscultural diversity with a rich heritage of British exploitation and admirable native resistance; sport, in particular cricket has played a massive part in this.
I suggest you take time to understand the significance of the game in this area as well as getting to grips with its history more. I hope that by the time you come back you'll know more about Guyana than the suicides of 1978. This country and the region itself has more to offer than you clearly believe.
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I would really advise you to go and see Tobago. It's their festival season, i was there in January and I absolutely loved it. There was plenty to do even for me (a teenager), ask one of the locals if he fancies taking you round the island for a few hours and stop off at one of the local restaurants. Sunday school, yes you guessed it, on Sundays...there is a big get together at buccoo where most of the people from the island and the tourists go to listen to local music and drink beer!! I miss it :(
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Martin, as a Saffa in grey, wet London today...wish I could fit in your suitcase.
South Africa and world cups - not two terms which make easy bedfellows (except if we swap codes for a second and think.. '95 on a crisp afternoon in Johannesburg against a hurricane called Lomu).
South Africans will remember the euphoria which greeted our return to world cricket in a one-day tournament in India when Donald took 5-25 in late 1991. The warmth and magnanimous nature of the Indian ovation At Eden Gardens is an enduring moment and one of my most treasured in sport.
This was soon followed by the first game of the '92 World Cup in which we surprised hosts Australia. The satisfaction enjoyed turned to elation when Jonty Rhodes announced himself to the World with the swallow-dive run-out of a pedestrian Inzamam Ul-Haq (some things never change) - that picture was on my wall for a while.
Sadly the shambles regarding rain-affected matches hadn't been sorted out yet by the ICC and we were left to chase an impossible 22 off one ball in an ill-fated semi-final against England. Imran Kahn's Pakistan went on to beat them in the final. As a result of that semi-final, the ICC realised that a method had to be found to deduct runs and overs proportionately. Step forward Duckworth-Lewis (proposed by an English schoolboy of the same name, I believe).
'96 saw Kirsten set a world record (admittedly against UAE) but we were blitzed by the bat of the son of the Caribbean - Mr Lara and that was that.
I don't want to discuss England '99 as the pain of the image endures: little yellow men jumping up and down while two green batsmen trudge limp-shouldered off the turf of Headingley after tieing the match.
Duckworth-Lewis may have saved most matches, but rain nevertheless returned to haunt us in 2003. I left South Africa as a qualified umpire, having stood in games involving the likes of Graeme Smith and Paul Collingwood in the Johannesburg leagues and sought my fortunes in London (a very original idea for a South African these days). I watched with horror as Boucher blocked a ball which was an easy single and we were out before the second round. I had booked flights and had a ticket to the Jo'burg final, expecting us to make that as hosts.
Boucher had blocked that ball, thinking he had the required runs, so Pollock eventually shouldered some responsibility. However, once again too late for us, the ICC came up with some more rocket science: project runs required onto the scoreboard to avoid confusion. So I think Polly would've slept a bit easier. Still I returned to Jo'burg to watch little yellow men again jumping up and down with another trophy in their hands.
I have two wishes for the next World Cup:
1) South Africa doesn't get complacent in light of the current number one spot on the ICC ODI rankings and that we make the final (is that two already?)
2) No more jumping yellow men at the end.
Amen
Enjoy your trip, Martin and should you get the chance to interview Graeme Smith, please pass on the message:
'Watch that mouth, Mr Smith - it wasn't too long ago when you were a humble fifteen year-old, doffing your baggie green Old Ed's cap at me and asking for two leg. You were always at your best when you let the willow do the talking.'
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hi,
i worked in Dominica (the commoenwealth of Dominica, NOT the Dominican Republic), and if you get the chance, visit this island. It is natural, beautiful and unique...the Caribbean generally is vastly overpriced...if you want to see the 'real' Caribbean, stay away from the tourist traps (St Lucia, Barbados) and try the unknown places...enjoy the cricket whereever you are, but don't believe the hype from the rich resort islands....
yours,
kaj
p.s. my website is full of picture from dominica, so enjoy
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Hey you're missing out on Antigua??
Why go to South America and put up with the rotten food and dodgy wooden buildings when you go to the new ground in St Johns and stay in civilisation?
Mind you prices have increased by 100%
Travelling from Turks and Caicos and apart from paying $100 a ticket it will not be costing me the GBP8K that ost of the agents appear to be charging.
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Wow, thats some kind of schedule! I've recently come back from Australia, so the World Cup was too much too soon, but I look forward to spending a lot of time on the sofa instead!
I'd look forward to the game on the 28th March you're going to between South Africa and Sri Lanka. Can't forget the sledging from Sangakkara to Pollock back at the last world cup so think this could be a good game!
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hi Martin !
I've travelled around the Caribbean on business for about twenty-odd years.
You will enjoy Barbados especially - eat at The Mews
on a Friday evening ... fantastic atmosphere, live music and a lot of the local cricket faces will be there. Try and get an interview with Prof. Edwards
- he'll tell you about all the pitches and plenty about
the players ! Make time to go to the Atlantic side
of the island @ Bathsheba.
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Beware of Canada. Most Canadians know that in 10-15 years, England will be replaced by the Maple Leafs in the Ashes.
How low can England go? March 18 will let you all know!
A foward looking Canuckhead
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My parents are from the beautiful islands of St. Kitts & Nevis. You should definitely take in games at Warner Park St Kitts; then pop over to Nevis (by ferry) and enjoy the ambience of Nevis. You could hike Mount Nevis and visit Bath Village (hot springs)- Hamilton House, you remember that great Englishman who eventually emigrated to America. Enjoy your trip, mate. The islands, anyone of them are great places to relax.
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Diaappointed that you will not be joining my son and I at Sabina Park on St Patrick`s Day. This will be a real clash of cultures between the Irish supporters and those favouring Pakistan. Should be a good day and night! And there is a cricket match going on as well!
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So you're heading for St.Lucia for tons of hard work reporting on the cricket huh?
Well I am sure you won't have any leisure time but just in case you do don't forget to try parasailing, its amazing. Also on friday night (I believe but my memory isn't too good these days) Gros Islet, a street party that is well worth a visit.
Don't bother with the duty free at "pink town" pointe seraphie (spelling may be a bit off) as it is pretty poor.
Lastly and most importantly, if you get a chance to try the local, homemade rum, make sure your life insurance is topped up before you do!!!!
The hang over to end all hang overs, my memory may be bad now but I can clearly remember THAT!!
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try the goat stew... a true delicacy..
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Be wary of the tour guides in St lucia would be my only piece of advice.
Took a day trip there after England ripped out the Windies inside 3 days in Barbados three years ago. Got picked up by a 'government tour guide' with 'just tip me if you want, I don't need paying, I'm employed already' line.
After a three hour tour of the rainforest garden and waterfalls I offered him 50 USD (there were 5 of us in the party) and had a huge row with him while he tried to get us to pay 50 USD per person. Nearly did a one man blockade of the road to stop us getting away. Bizarre.
That said, beautiful island from what little we saw of it. Looked like a number of the locals had been busy weeding their gardens, nudge nudge....
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Some of you have asked why Martin will not be visiting some of the other islands. There is a reason for that - I will be doing it!
I am covering Group D in Jamaica and will be at the Super Eight games in Antigua and Grenada, as well as the Jamaica semi. I will link up with Martin for the final in Barbados.
I have posted an entry on this blog providing details - please feel free to give me your suggestions!
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St Lucia is beautiful, I hear....
But I'm with Paresh. Windies vs Pakistan sounds like a cracking game, and in between you can visit Dunns river Falls, Negril's seven-mile white sand beach, Doctor's Cave in Montego Bay....
I think Paresh has the better deal!
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It should be a fantastic tournament and a real advert for One Day cricket. If possible, the big player that should be interviewed for England is Kevin Pietersen as he is never short of a word to say and if he is at his best, then it could be runs all the way to the final.
4 weeks ago, I would not have predicted a good cup run for England but I do believe that with the right luck and points against the big guns aswell as confidence boosting victories against the 'new' countries, something good could happen at the end of the tournament.
Come on England!!
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Seems you are not well prepared for this trip. Tell you what, why don't you let me take your place? I'll have no problems visiting the good sights and interviewing the right people!
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Some of us get all the luck, I wish I was going but getting married in May so cant make it. Anyway my mates from the SharabyArmy are going to the WC, I think they just going for India's group stage matches.
Out of the gang there's our H shes a big Yuvraj fan and is only Girl I know who knows her Cricket big time!!
Beware of the Sober Singh in the pack lol hes never ever sober hahahaha and will need to hit rehab after the WC if India win it, but wont stop him getting drunk every day...
There are a few more guys who dont really need mentioning lol
Well mate I say the GOAT CURRY is a must if you like Curry...and dont forget to sample that Rum because if you go to the Windies and dont try that then it would be a wasted trip.
If you need an assistant to help you I am just a email away!!!!
Have a great time you lucky ***!!!
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Martin,
Rest all is fine, but make sure you get a complete vaccination you need before you start your journey.
A travel insurance is also recommended.
Have a good trip.!
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Going to be heading to St. Lucia as well with a few buddies, resplendent in beige shirts and brown stubbies. We will be hoping that New Zealand will be able to carry on their recent good form......particularly on the 16th butt win, lose or draw a fair bit of friendly banter with the Barmy Army will be exchanged.
Come join us for a rum in the party stand for any of the NZ group games, any interviews with the Beige Brigage are likely to get more, umm, enthusiastic during the day.
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Hi Paresh, if you're the lucky guy doing the Antigua leg, you simply have to get to Montserrat. They still play cricket despite living with a live volcano - see www.mvo.ms - and it's the most welcoming island you'll find in the Caribbean. And to keep the non-English happy, it is the only other country to celebrate St Patrick's Day as a national holiday.
Sitting at the bar by the pool at the Vue Pointe hotel watching the lava falling down the side of the volcano is a truly unique experience. Don't miss it!
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We rented a catamaran for the week. Will be the only ones there with "Barmy Texans" t-shirts as we root England on to victory!
Our brilliant move - we bought party stand tickets for NZ v ENG as well as normal seats as we heard party stand was standing room only. If not we'll have two decent seats available to anyone in need of a ticket. Either way we are looking forward to a long Friday of cricket and then the famous Friday Night Carnival in Gros Islet. See you there!
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Martin, you should come to the Caribbean with an open mind. Respect the people and our culture, don't go comparing what you find here with what you are accustomed to in the UK.
You should try to talk a lot to the local people. Visit the rum bars and the village shops and the small businesses.
But above everything else, just enjoy the Caribbean. Don't mind the lost luggage and the bad roads and the high prices. That's part of the culture!
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Martin you will love St Lucia.This will be our third visit on the trot. If you are based in or near Rodney Bay drop in to the Coco Palm and I will buy you a drink. You must go to the Jump Up street party held on Friday nights in Rodney Bay.
Good Luck, see you there,
Brian
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Saint Lucian, i am.
so on a free day try getting a boat ride down and back up out West Coast, could be lots of fun...The Unicorn(used in pirates of the caribbean, offers that and there are a few other great boats which do that trip) sunset cruises or day cruises...
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Why so negative about Guyana, everyone country has a past some they like and some they don't. Get real when you come to Guyana, you will experience our Caribbean flavour.
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St Lucia is a cracking Island. Anse Chastenet is a magical beach and usually quiet as the road to get down there is the worst ever - but well worth it.
The lobster at The Charthouse in Rodney Bay is still the best I've ever had.
You lucky, lucky git!
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Well, I don't care a thing about cricket... but I'll miss you while you're gone, and I'll be EXTREMELY jealous about all the time you'll be getting on a hot sandy beach! And when you come back perhaps you'll have forgotten all our faults and just be glad to be back home with us :-)
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As a Scot who came to St. Lucia in 1971 on a two year contract and never left..... WELCOME TO ST.LUCIA.
You should have a great time, just do not over do it.
St. Lucians are very excited about having quote " the world " and we will do our very best to make everyone welcome and that they enjoy their visit
In the words of the calipsonian
" Cricket lovely Cricket "
Ronald
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Hey Man,
Go enjoy good cricket, enjoy whatever island you are going and stop being negative. Those were crazy Americans who went to Guyana and kill themselves. Also, remember you will be in the Caribbean and not England where we tend to take life on a slower pace than the "mother" country. I command you to have a great time. Heh! Heh! St. Lucia very nice man.
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The regligious cult was an American know as Jim Jones and he killed his own people. Yes, it did happen in Guyana. Anyway walk with a lot of TCP
ANTISEPTIC OINTMENT, get the dark tube it works wounders on bites, stings cuts, etc....
You will need it when you go over there with all the masquitos. The Le Meridien Pegasus is a nice place to stay, if you have time go take a tour at the Arrowpoint (592) 225-9648. In Guyana.
Have fun and good luck to our boys, bring home the "CUP" lads.
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Went to Antigua in the summer great ground there.
Whatever you do don't travel Caribbean Star unless you want to miss the games!
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Don't listen to Craig - eat breadfruit and coconut. Those are certainly bigger than your head, I hope.
You need too meet up with some locals like me, in Barbados, and we'll treat you a drink at a rumshop and show you Bajan hospitality.
I'll be watching the matches too as I have tickets for the super 8's and Final.
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Went to Antigua in the summer great ground there.
Whatever you do don't travel Caribbean Star unless you want to miss the games!
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The tournament definitely promises to be a ripper regardless of whoever makes it, breaks it, duffs it or catches it. The winner may be the ones who will be engraved on the trophy, but regardless I have no doubts it will be a festival of cricket to behold! (If only here in Canada the rights weren't held by a digital cable company, or least have highlights on the CBC or something, but noooo...)
Either way I envy your schedule -- I will more than likely be forced to follow the tournament through the likes of the Beeb and Cricinfo. I think the key is clear though: all bets are well and truly off. Australia is not as clear as a front runner as they were up to about three weeks ago, and anyone in the Super 8 could potentially take it. Have we seen the last of Australia's dominance? Perhaps -- I daren't rule it out. It's like trying to bet AGAINST Rob and Amber on the American network CBS's Amazing Race All-Stars: THEY JUST WON'T BLOODY DIE!
The way I see it though, I am convinced the Final Four will be South Africa, India, New Zealand and (surprise!) England. The lads have weapons -- Collingwood, Flintoff, Pietersen, Plunkett and Nixon, if all on their game, will be world beaters. The goal for Ole Blighty would be to keep them on fire, if even if it means a light toast (I'm starting to sound like I'm grilling a steak...pardon those, the metaphors are not intended!)
Pakistan I highly do not fancy -- they are in a mess that I doubt will be able to be sorted out in time. Sri Lanka I am not convinced of either, nor am I convinced of Sir Viv's confidence in the Boys of Calypso. Zimbabwe and Bangladesh -- thank you, come again! Minnows? Maybe this could be their year, Kenya maybe not, but Canada, Scotland and Ireland could make some waves. (and with no USA in sight -- what a relief!)
And I have to agree with Mr Gawain...and it's a warning that NZ and Kenya ought to heed as well...beware the Canadians. However, I don't share his optimism as to us becoming a premiere Test side a la Sri Lanka with 10-15 years, I will nevertheless be happy to see the day that Canada's captain takes the pitch at Toronto's Rogers Centre calling the coin toss at our inaugural home Test, preferably against India, Pakistan, England or Australia. But beware the Osinde, Davison, Bagai and Cummins -- they will be fatal if taken lightly.
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So glad you are actually visiting the Caribbean and not just reading those delightful travel guides... you will find that St. Lucia is more than "one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean" - that Guyana is not remembered for the tragic mass murders... etc.
I know journalists need some stunning opening liners.. but you will leave the Caribbean in two months time with more insight than those guide books offer.
The people make the difference whereever you go in the world... I trust you will meet some of the Caribbean's best!!! Come with an open mind and then the next stories you write will not have to rely on one or two events that link the world to a small island somewhere...West Indian people have much more to offer and once you go with the flow, you will have a wonderful time.
I have lived, worked and travelled in the West Indies for twenty years so I have a little experience under my belt.
The advice on Ladera resort is good - stunning!
Enjoy!
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The biggest surprises are from the underdogs.This world cup is wide open.I feel we may see at least 2-teams from the sub-continent of Inda in the final four.One team from the australian continent.The host have a good chance if they can remain methodical and avoid Heroism.One team from England,south africa will complete the final four.
*ALSO;
TWO WORLD CUP RECORDS AND ONE WORLD RECORD WILL BE CREATED.
REMIND ME OF THIS MESSAGE AFTER THE FINAL.
WISH U-ALL LOADS OF FUN.
PARWIZ
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Highly recommend the Dune Preserve in Anguilla (well worth making a detour) - where you can hear the brilliant Bankie Banx (father of West Indian offie Omari) play live with his band Roots n'Herbs in a bar made out of old bits of boat - right on the beach. You will have a memorable night. We went there on an England A tour and it was magical. Check it out on www.bankiebanx.net.
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Brian Breakwell,your very lucky we are on our third straight trip and have had our booking cancelled by the Coco Kreole and moved to the Almond Morgan instead still three weeks of all inclusive front row seats for all Three England games.Was out there last year for the 2 England A one day games the day nighter was great,the stadium is a little laid back so buy a couple of drinks at a time,food is great St Lucians are the most welcoming people i have had the pleasure of meeting.Two top class resturants in Rodney Bay are the Buzz resturant and The Edge which over looks the nay and the owner was the chief to the king of Sweden look forward to meeting everyone out ther
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Hi, Q. Were you here at the Gibson relays, NOt sure - perhaps not. No definetley not. Scrap that.
I enjoyed your column. But.......I see you are not coming to Ja. Why Not?
I love your sense of humour and writing style.
"WI Romantic favourites". Love it. No need for another word. hahahaaaaaaa.
If you are coming to Jamaica, you seem rather young, an interesting person to speak with is my Dad - Ivan Hope (from the colonial past). He is 95....6 in April.
He loves Cricket, understands the actual principles and field settings of the game; but most of all, he has an excellent sense of humour......and above all....READS THE GAME WELL.... He enjoys watching all the international matches.
Infact, he staid up all night in December watching an old match between South Africa and Australia in South African where South Africa made over 4oo runs to win a one day game. He never moved from the tv until 5:00 a.m. when the game was finished.
So, if you happen to be passing this way. Stop by and have a chat with the old boy. He would love it and you would learn a lot. Believe Me.
Oh, I have a classic example of his sense of humour to share with you. But, let's see if you are interested.
By for now.
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I think Ian Bell and PC are the key to whether our batting stands up or not.
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At 37 years, Sanath Jayasuriya is still one of the quickest run scorers in world cricket.
The ideal player for the one-day game, he is a safe fielder with 111 catches and is still on par with younger players in fitness and quick running between the wickets. Yet he was on the Sri Lankan team that won the World Cup 11 years ago and is still around to chase its second title in the Caribbean.
Born in the island nation's southern coastal district of Matara on June 30, 1969, Jayasuriya made his limited-overs international debut in 1989 against Australia.
Starting international cricket as a spin bowling allrounder batting often at No. 7, Jayasuriya gradually improved as a batsman and became one of world's most successful openers.
Jayasuriya's first limited-overs hundred came five years from his debut in 1994, when he scored 140 runs against New Zealand, which triggered a rapid ascendance in his career.
Two years later in 1996, he combined with Romesh Kaluwitharana to form one of the most exciting and successful opening pairs to exploit field restrictions in the first 15 overs.
The pair took advantage of the rule to place only two fielders beyond the 30-yard circle hitting the ball over the top and this strategy helped Arjuna Ranatunga's Sri Lankans to win the World Cup in March 1996.
Jayasuriya's exceptional batting, bowling and fielding performance brought him the man of the tournament title.
He has since been a regular opening batsman for his team and Sri Lanka's win or loss in limited-overs cricket has largely depended on how successfully Jayasuriya plays.
The 2007 World Cup will be Jayasuriya's fifth and probably the final one as a player.
He has so far appeared in 379 limited-overs matches and scored 11,538 runs at 32 runs per innings. With 23 centuries and 62 fifties the left-hander has maintained a strike rate of over 90 runs per 100 balls.
Taking over the captaincy from Ranatunga in 1999, Jayasuriya led his side in 118 limited-over matches winning 66 matches and losing 47. He stepped down as captain after the 2003 World Cup in South Africa where Sri Lanka lost to Australia in the semifinal.
Jayasuriya is only behind India's Sachin Tendulkar and Pakistan's Inzamam-ul-Haq in terms of limited-over appearances and runs. He has hit 224 sixes, the same as Pakistan's Shahid Afridi who has hit the same number in fewer matches.
Bowling left-arm spin Jayasuriya has taken 285 wickets in limited-overs matches and is known for containing batsmen at the end overs.
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the poms have a real chance of playing in the finals, with new zealand and the africans and the champs might not have such a good tour as the team is very unsetteled anrd still scathing after losing to the poms in 1day'ers here in oz and the drubing the kiwis gave us, anyway thats my thoughts, greg
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England got a Chance.... I dont know kind a like to support England(since i have been living in UK for last 4 years) as long as they dont play Pakistan. Obviously still want pakistan to win but they got bleak chances now after the great Drugi Playboy Shoaib and Mr New face Asif.
Go Pakistan and England and hummm Scotland( lol)
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England got a Chance.... I dont know kind a like to support England(since i have been living in UK for last 4 years) as long as they dont play Pakistan. Obviously still want pakistan to win but they got bleak chances now after the great Drugi Playboy Shoaib and Mr New face Asif.
Go Pakistan and England and hummm Scotland( lol)
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Martin,
Ignore the whingers moaning about your expenses - the best thing my TV licence could be spent on (if I actually paid for one that is) would be cocktails for your good self.
Take lots of photos, have a great time, and try to watch at least a little bit of the cricket this time...
Oh and if you have a spare moment, do try to fix the whole outside-uk internet broadcasting of the commentary fiasco, the cricketing public are up in arms here in Moscow!
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