Quote:[size=12pt]ST JOHN’S, Antigua -- The government of Antigua and Barbuda is urging citizens and residents as well as Caribbean cricket fans to support the first Test match between the West Indies and England from April 13-17, 2015, at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Grounds (SVRCG) at North Sound.

To achieve this objective, the ministry of sports will be embarking on an aggressive promotions campaign in conjunction with the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), the local organising committee (LOC), the Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association (ABCA), sponsors and other stakeholders to ensure premium support for the game.

The effort to drum-up substantial support for the match by Antiguans and Barbudans comes in light of the anticipated 5,000 British fans that would be making their presence felt at the SVRCG.

“It is important we promote and market this game strategically because it will be first time in Antigua and Barbuda’s history that a Test match will start on a Monday and finish on a Friday,” said Senator Colin James, parliamentary secretary in the ministry of sports, who has been tasked with the promotion.

“The Test match comes during the Easter break for schools so it is a good opportunity for parents to get their children to attend the five days as part of their vacation,” James added.

School children under 12-years-old will pay 50 percent of the ticket prices for the stands (EC$30.00) and grounds (EC$15.00).

All sectors of the community including churches, sports clubs, social organisations as well as the entertainment fraternity will be approached to lend their assistance to spread the word.

Later this week, a press conference will be convened to apprise the public of the some initiatives to assist in boosting support for the Test.[/size]