...even although some of the English commentators still find it difficult to accept we have a right to be on the same field. That in itself is part of the great enigma of the England cricket set-up as the players themselves appear much more realistic, but the so-called pundits are divided between those who recognize and those who despise the presence of the minnows. Even the great Inzaman still can't accept that he was beaten by the better team on the day at Sabina Park . From the comfort of his home in Pakistan he dismissed Ireland's victory in one curt sentence; "We lost because of a bad pitch." Bury your head big man, you lost because you were beaten by the fighting spirit of a highly-motivated team that rose to the occasion much better than your pumped-up prima donnas who sulked in the dressing room immediately after the game, in stark contrast to the late departed Bob Woolmer, who had the grace and dignity to congratulate his adversaries on their epic achievement.
The Woolmer murder enquiry continues to cast a bizarre shadow over the competition although there is mounting criticism at the absence of spectators at virtually every match. Tourism officials are having to fend off public criticism at low crowds and numerous cancellations from India and Pakistan after their teams were knocked out. Economically the cost of staging the tournament will eventually have to be set against the material benefits, either short-term or long-term, but already the critics are claiming foul play and that the estimates presented many months ago were grossly exaggerated. The criticism has been exacerbated by the fact that many West Indian spectators have been priced out of the seats in deference to the mighty dollar from overseas visitors, many of whom are now not coming because their team lost. Empty stands may not reflect cash receipts as most of the tickets were prepaid, but for atmosphere and excitement there's no substitute for West Indian supporters and they have been solely missed. It is a situation not lost on West Indies captain Brian Lara whose team are now struggling to make the semi-finals, and who has publicly called for spectators to come out and support the local team. Not so easy Brian when all the tickets have already been sold to overseas tour operators!
That said, there are no such negatives in the Ireland camp as the Blarney Army is re-organizing and more and more 'troops' are preparing to gather in Barbados in ten days time to support the one team that has captured the spirit and the ethos of competitive sport with their enthusiasm and focus against all odds, on and off the field.
That In itself has arguably been the highlight of this competition to date, and if you need proof ask any West Indian.
"We love the Irish, yes mon!"
