Jersey ‘punches well above its weight on sporting stage’

Deputy Lucy Stephenson at Oakfield sports centre Picture: ROB CURRIE. (33947532)

JERSEY athletes competing on the international stage prove the value of sport to the Island, an assistant minister has said.

With Team Jersey already in action across a variety of disciplines in the Commonwealth Games, the Island’s cricketers are set to take centre stage over the next ten days.

The Island is hosting five teams – Bermuda, Hong Kong, Italy, Kenya and Uganda, in the final stage of the International Cricket Council’s Challenge League B Tournament, which is part of the pathway that could ultimately lead to 50-over World Cup qualification.

Jersey are well placed having won five out of five in Uganda and go into the tournament knowing that another clean sweep should gain them promotion to the next stage.

Assistant Economic Development Minister Lucy Stephenson, who has responsibility for sport and is due to attend the Jersey v Hong Kong match next Wednesday, said: ‘This is just one example of a fantastic sporting event for both competitors and Islanders to enjoy, and how Jersey continues to punch well above its weight on the international sporting stage.

‘With our continued involvement in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, it is great to see such a high standard of sport being played on the Island too. I wish our Jersey players the best of luck over the next ten days.’

The tournament started yesterday and will run until Sunday 14 August with matches to be played at both Farmers and Grainville cricket grounds. Spectators can attend the games for free, and refreshments will be available at both grounds.

External Relations Minister Philip Ozouf said: ‘I would like to welcome the visiting teams, staff and supporters from all participating nations and wish them every success in the competition. We enjoy strong relationships – both on and off the pitch – with our international visitors, and I hope they are able to enjoy some of Jersey’s highlights while they are here.

‘I would also like to thank all those involved, including Jersey Cricket and the staff at both grounds, for the work and preparations that have enabled this tournament to go ahead.’

The tournament started yesterday with Bermuda against Italy at Grainville. Jersey were due to play their opening game today at Farmers Field in a crunch match against Uganda.

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