Cricket: U19 World Cup stars ready to play

Representatives pose with the trophy to be awarded to the U19 world champions. Photo / Getty Images

Black Caps skipper Daniel Vettori joined players and officials at the ICC U19 World Cup's welcome ceremony in Christchurch yesterday. The vibrant welcome, attended by representatives of all 16 teams in the tournament, included Maori songs and a haka.

New Zealand Cricket president Denis Currie told attendees at the welcome ceremony that the competition was one of the most prestigious events on the international cricket calendar. "For all the players taking part in this tournament, there are tremendous opportunities for personal success in the years ahead", he said.

NZC chief executive Justin Vaughan noted the significance of the tournament, held since 1988, in the development of cricket worldwide.

The inaugural tournament featured legends Brian Lara, Mike Atherton and Inzamam-ul-haq. "In the last event, New Zealand's Tim Southee was player of the tournament. I am certain that the millions watching this event worldwide will be just as fascinated to see which stars emerge", said Vaughan.

This 16-team tournament, which is seen as an important breeding ground for the next generation of senior international cricketers, will takes place from January 15 to January 30.

Defending champion India will open its campaign against qualifier Afghanistan in front of the cameras at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, near Christchurch on the opening day of the competition with Pakistan facing the West Indies in Palmerston North and 2008 beaten finalist South Africa taking on Ireland in Queenstown.

The 16 teams are split into four groups with Groups A and C being based in and around Christchurch, Group B teams playing their matches in Queenstown and Group D games taking place in Napier and Palmerston North.

- NZ HERALD ONLINE, AGENCIES