SECOND INNINGS -- Desmond Haynes Tri-State Cricket Cup

This gentlemans game has finally found its place under the Sun, here in the U.S., due to one mans vision and his inherent love for the game. Major League Cricket (MLC), the brainchild of Bernard J. Cameron isnt just a new kid on the block, but the kid who is all set to turn around the state of cricket in the US of A. For all you cricket lovers it is a breath of fresh air. The winds of change are finally gusting.

(PRWEB) September 13, 2003 ---Truth be told for years Cricket in the U.S. has been a victim of in fighting, politics and mud slinging, where personal gains have often taken precedence, than the welfare of the game. And those of you have followed the histrionics of the so-called governing body will no longer have to hold your breath to see how the drama unfolds. For all that is now history.

This gentlemans game has finally found its place under the Sun, here in the U.S., due to one mans vision and his inherent love for the game. Major League Cricket (MLC), the brainchild of Bernard J. Cameron isnt just a new kid on the block, but the kid who is all set to turn around the state of cricket in the US of A. For all you cricket lovers it is a breath of fresh air. The winds of change are finally gusting.

This story isnt about MLC, but the success of cricket. Based in Somerset, NJ, MLC is all geared to bring cricket into main street America. No longer will it be a weekend game played by a bunch of ex-pats in a city park, but one that is followed by Americans on Monday night!

Albeit its fledgling status, MLC has big plans for the future, starting with its interstate cricket championship - the Desmond Haynes Tri-state Cricket Cup. Championing the cause of cricket, this tournament not only seeks to encourage competitive excellence, but also popularize the sport at a grassroots level.

Named after the legendary Desmond Haynes, who for all reasons needs no introduction, the state teams of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut will face off each other in the Tri-state Cricket Cup challenge. But what makes this tournament truly unique is that the under 15 teams from each of these states too will play one another. In the subsequent years, the competition will include the under-13, 19 and 21, as well.

When asked about lending his name, Mr. Haynes remarked, If I can be instrumental in harnessing young talent for the future of cricket in America, I would be only too pleased. Cricket has been my passion and Id like to share that with all"

In its goal to further cricket at the grassroots level, MLC is assisted by the U.S. Cricket Development Program (USCDP), a not for profit organization. This is the first of the many projects the two intend to conduct together in the future.

There are many firsts to the Desmond Haynes Tri-state Cricket Cup. Namely, it is the first interstate cricket championship to be played in the U.S. It is the first triangular knockout series of its kind, which has a handsome purse attached to it. It is the first tournament where therell be matches for both seniors as well as juniors. And last but not the least, training camps conducted by no else but the legend himself - Desmond Haynes, for all players participating.

The first ball of the tournament will be bowled on August 30, 2003 and will be played across the tri-state area. The first match will be played at Marine Park, Brooklyn NY on August 31, between New York and New Jersey. The under 15 games however will all be held at Old Bridge, New Jersey.

Furthering the cause of cricket in the U.S. and assisting MLC in this venture is yet another doyen of the cricketing world, Sir Clive H. Lloyd. When asked about the tournament, Sir Clive said, Im pleased to see cricket grow in this part of the world. The Desmond Haynes Tri-state Cricket Cup is a bold step in fulfilling that goal. What I find satisfying is that the game now has a platform to grow on."

Once again that isnt all. Inside sources tell us MLC has been successful in securing sponsors like MetLife, Western Union and Air Jamaica for the event. With developments like these, the Tri-State Cup becomes one of the best-supported cricket events in the U.S. in recent times. After years of waiting, it looks like the patience of all American cricket fans has finally paid off!

In the words of Bernard J. Cameron, CEO and founder of MLC, cricket is one of the worlds most popular sports and its following in the U.S. is growing rapidly. We want to provide both the players and the followers regular opportunities to play and watch the best cricket in this country. The inaugural Desmond Haynes Tri State Cup is a step in that direction."

American crickets first innings may have been a complete wash out, however things look different the second time round. With a new, energetic and focused team in place, chances are they will score more at the end of the day. But as we all know predictions very often go awry in the game of cricket. As of now things look positive and as cricket lovers let us hope this match worth all the promises.
For more information on Major League Cricket visit their website at http://www.mlcus.com.