The "Kensington We Hay!!" posse on arrival at the new Oval.

by PHILIP SPOONER

ALL ACROSS THE WORLD the scorecard has revealed that the new, regal Kensington Oval is potentially the best place on the planet for cricket. The observers have given the new 28 000-seater coliseum a "perfect 10".

Amid a delightful cacophony of sonorous Bajan sounds symbolising national rejoicing, there were dancers showcasing our rhythm and style and rapturous spectator support demonstrating the merriment, at Kensington Forever – the official unveiling last Saturday.

The event effectively marked the world's introduction to the International Cricket Council's Cricket World Cup. Even though the official opening ceremony will be at Trelawney, Jamaica, on March 11, people have long viewed what happens in Barbados as a true reflection of what goes on across the cricketing landscape of the region. Saturday was no different.

Prime Minister Owen Arthur came out batting first and made the keynote statement. He told the world that the historic ground was a gift from the present to generations to come.

Symbol of pride

"This wonderful stadium is a symbol of Barbadian pride and industry," he said. "Cricket is the only sport in which Barbados has a world-class history and tradition, and I really want to regard it as a gift of this generation of Barbadians to Barbadians for the ages."

Sir Everton Weekes, was born 100 yards away from the ground in 1925 – five years before it hosted the first Test match in the Caribbean. He went on to be one of the best batsmen in the world during his heyday. He can remember when Kensington was an open field.

"They have done a wonderful job. I still feel I belong here," said the legend who turns 82 next Monday. "It's a wonderful feeling to see what has transpired.

"There is little doubt that the stadium will be ready in time – in fact the first game in Barbados does not take place until April 11 during the Super 8 phase of the competition; there is no doubt that it will be a magnificent arena for cricket."

Vic Marks is a former Somerset and England cricketer who now works as a cricket features writer with the Observer newspaper in England. He was among the more than 60 media workers invited to cover the event.

"The stadium, I think, will be a triumph, a fresh landmark for Bridgetown and Caribbean cricket, but judging by this weekend it will share some of the pitfalls of a few English grounds – the Rose Bowl and The Oval spring to mind – which is gridlock on the roads as you approach," he said.

"Still, Bajan good cheer and their love of cricket will probably overcome most obstacles."

Stephen Brenkley is a senior writer with the Independent and he observed that the ground is "already magnificent".

Magnificent Oval

"Kensington Oval in Bridgetown is already magnificent. It is a modern ground with a clean field that pays tribute to the old venue on which it stands and yet seems to reflect what might be the way of Caribbean life," Brenkley said.

"There is some way to go and the scepticism of the world outside remains to be overcome, and perhaps that is the most difficult
feat of all. The distinct feeling to be garnered at Kensington Oval is that it can and will be done."

In the crowd on Saturday, a number of people were delighted they took the opportunity to be part of history.

"I couldn't wait to be part of this event," said Riett Lambert, who is from Bermuda. "For me this is history. I am a cricket fan and I also love it here in Barbados and I felt I needed to be a part of this."

Four-year-old Janee Haynes had never been to the old Oval but was among the first people through the gates on Saturday.

Her beaming smile summed up the mood, as she appeared awestruck by the magnitude of the new Greenidge & Haynes Stand.