Dubai: Haroon Lorgat, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Chief Executive believes that Twenty20 is the right format for new market and new audiences. Speaking to Gulf News on the eve of the ICC World Twenty20 qualifiers, Lorgat said: "We have all come to realise that this format is a fantastic format to introduce to new markets and new audiences. We have seen the success of it already. It is a wonderful format to go to countries like Italy and USA where the longer version of the game might be difficult for them to catch on very early. With this format they can catch on to it quickly because it is attractive, enjoyable and fast and not that long. It blends itself to new markets."
Though only two teams from the qualifiers can get to play in this year's ICC World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka, Lorgat is hopeful that more teams will get an opportunity to play in the next World Cup in 2014. "I am reasonably optimistic that we will see 16 teams in 2014. It is still a decision which the board must ratify. It is a recommendation that we managed to get through the Chief Executives' Committee meeting," said Lorgat.
When asked how important is it for UAE and the region by staging the qualifiers for the second time in succession, Lorgat said: "UAE can be proud that it has got fantastic facilities. It has hosted many tournament and international matches so it is nothing new for the UAE anymore. It is becoming a norm because this particular event is big in terms of the number of matches as 72 matches in total will be held in the next 12 days. That is the biggest we had and with 16 teams in one place requires a lot of logistical arrangements. So I think it will perhaps test the capability but I am confident that UAE can do it."
According to Lorgat, this tournament is very important from the development and spreading of cricket around the world. "For the development programme it is very important. We are very strong in our objectives to try and create opportunities for these developing nations. So bringing them together in such an event is a great opportunity for the development programme."
