Stanford Super Series unveiled

The winners of this weekend's Twenty20 Cup will be invited to play in the Stanford Super Series in the build-up to the £10million match between England and a Caribbean select XI sponsored by Sir Allen Stanford.

Kent, Essex, Durham and Middlesex will compete for the chance to be part of the ground-breaking series in which Trinidad and Tobago will also play in matches against England and the Stanford Superstars.

ECB chief executive David Collier hailed the arrangement, which would give the domestic champions a unique taste of the international game.

“The Stanford Super Series offers a real incentive to the final four sides in tomorrow’s Twenty20 Cup final at the Rose Bowl," he said.

“I am sure that Durham, Essex, Kent and Middlesex will all be excited at the prospect of travelling to Antigua in October.

“For the Twenty20 Cup winners, the Stanford Super Series will also bring real benefits and will allow the players to showcase their talents against the Stanford 20/20 champions from the Caribbean.

"It's a great opportunity for the champions to play Trinidad and Tobago - a real opportunity to link the domestic game with international game."

Stanford said: “The domestic champions match is an exciting addition to what will be a fantastic week of cricket and will be a fascinating and high quality contest between two very strong sides.

“I know that the Trinidad and Tobago team will be eager to defend their reputation as the best in the Caribbean, and I’m expecting another full house at the Stanford Cricket Ground for this ground-breaking event.

“The Stanford Super Series is all about quality entertainment and in addition to the drama to be played out at the Stanford Cricket Ground we will be taking cricket to the wider community as part of the build up to the Stanford 20/20 for 20."

West Indies legend Richie Richardson added: "It's going to create interest and enthusiasm that's been lacking in West Indies cricket."

Schedule

October 25: Stanford Superstars v Trinidad and Tobago
October 26: England v Twenty20 Cup winners
October 27: Trinidad and Tobago v Twenty20 Cup winners
October 28: England v Trinidad and Tobago
October 29: Stanford Superstars v Twenty20 Cup winners
November 1: Stanford Superstars v England