In reply to bobby Simon has identified the growing loss of interest in the game and the poor standard of play as reasons for a lack of sponsorship. this is very serious but no one really wants to address this lack of interest in a meaningful way. When I joined this MB i thought this was a place for serious discussion about this game that some of us claim to be so passionate about. Unfortunately, most here love only trivial matters where they can demonstrate their nastiness and insularity.
It was natural when we started losing that cricket lost the sweet taste it once had. However maintaing the public interest should not have been mind boggling; it will require thought and work.
Here are some ideas:
1. Cricket revival MUST come from the youths. Therefore our concentration should be on well funded little leagues for both boys and girls. This should be continued throughout the primary & secondary schools. Emphasis should be on 10/10 or 20/20 with innovation in the rules to encourage excitement and interest; here's an example:
Instead of playing on large open fields, the game could be played on small, tall fenced fields about 3 or 4 times as large as a basketball court. That allows for just a few players to play. Eleven players are not necessary. Games can be played with mixed sexes in co-ed schools. Tennis balls or more springy bouncier balls may be used. Kids love to play. They'll figure things out. Grownups can help.
2. Re-introduce a re-formated version of "Beach Cricket" so that it is all inclusive. We can learn a thing or two from beach volleyball. Get the old and the young even the tourists involved. Make the beach the place to be on a weekend once again. Hold competitions right there on the beach. Bring the game to the people, even in the shopping malls.
3. Bring the test cricketers to the people as well. Make them know that they represent the people and as such are their ambassadors. There are lots of different functions happening on each island throughout the year. Have these players show up and meet the people. When you know someone is depending on you it makes you try a little harder and allows you to play above your potential.
Once these girls and boys together with their moms & dads start catching that old cricketing fever, trust me, it will become an epidemic.