Pawar impressed with standard of cricket in World Cup

New Delhi, Mar 21 (PTI) The International Cricket Council
(ICC) president Sharad Pawar on Monday praised the excitement
generated due to the ICC Cricket World Cup calling it
potentially the "greatest and most dramatic event where the
standard of game has been impressive."
"We have surely been treated to a real feast of 50-over
cricket with some outstanding games. Few who were in Bengaluru
will forget the tied match between India and England or
Ireland's record-breaking triumph against England while the
passion shown by the home supporters for the hosts Bangladesh,
India and Sri Lanka has been spectacular," Pawar was quoted as
saying in an ICC release.
"The standard of cricket has been impressive and there is
no doubt that 50-over cricket has a real attraction and an
amazing appeal for players, spectators in the grounds and the
hundreds of millions watching on television around the world,"
Pawar added.
The ICC president is happy that those who predicted that
days for 50-over format were numbered, have been proved
wrong.
"Some people have been predicting the demise of 50-over
cricket but they have been proven wrong throughout 'The Cup
that Counts'. The television audience figures have set new
records and the India vs England match was the most viewed
game in ICC Cricket World Cup history with multi-millions in
India alone tuning in," Pawar added.
The veteran politician and senior union minister of India
is happy about the number of people who were present at the
ground during games.
"I think the television and crowd figures demonstrate the
enduring appeal of the 50-over game and I have no doubt that
it will continue to grow from strength to strength in the
future."