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The Bermuda Cricket Board (BCB) reiterated today its commitment to the long-term future of the country’s cricket program following Government’s recent pledge of support for the next 4 ½ years.

Reginald Pearman, President of the BCB noted, “We are very excited and grateful for the recognition by overnment of the achievements of the Bermuda Cricket Board in both its development programs and the success of the National cricket team. The Premier and the Government have laid a long-term foundation for the future of the country’s cricket program.”

“As previously mentioned, the BCB has developed a 4 year strategic plan to cement our deserved standing as an elite Associate country. The major objectives of this plan are:

A. Be competitive at the CWC 2007
B. Win the ICC Trophy in 2009 and therefore re-qualify for the CWC 2011
C. Establish a new era of cricket across the country through developmental programs, youth schemes and infrastructure upgrades.
D. Increase enjoyment and participation of all those in the game.

It is important to note that the investment provided by Government, and the complementary private sector funding we plan to secure, is to be used over a 54 month period reaching all aspects of the game.”

“The BCB is currently feverishly working on its annual operating and development plans to ensure that the commitment is allocated in the most appropriate manner in pursuit of the strategic goals. Once the Board has approved the initial draft of the plan the Board will be convening a meeting with all clubs and coaches to receive their advice and feedback on the investment of the grant.”

Administrative excellence and a new era of corporate structure and governance will be forthcoming as the BCB evolves itself to efficiently deploy its resources. Pearman continued:
“With increased funding comes increased responsibility. The Board is acutely aware and is actively pursing the internal structural issues that it needs to work through to be an organization that can deliver the goals of the strategic plan. The governance and management of the BCB will follow best practices and there will have to be some changes, especially to the bye-laws and operational policies that will allow the Board to operate at this new higher level.”

“We are very cognisant of the trust the Government has placed in the Board as the National Governing Body for cricket and we will set our standards at a new level of excellence.”

Pearman concluded his statements with a request for support and unity from the cricket and local community.

“The Board recognise that it has set lofty goals, the pursuit of excellence and best practice shall be relentless as we continue to evolve. I call on each and every person and corporate body in this great country to support your National Sport Governing Body the BCB, support its cricket program and developmental strategies, and to support your heritage and culture that lives in our National Sport, the great game of cricket.