By IANS
Johannesburg : The first world tournament in the truncated version of cricket, World Twenty20 South Africa 2007, was officially launched here Thursday.
The launch marked the official countdown, showcasing the new International Cricket Council (ICC) World T20 identity in an exciting exhibition of sportainment themes.
The 13-day, 12-nation tournament starts at the Wanderers, Johannesburg, Sep 11 with the first match between hosts South Africa and the West Indies.
The final will be held at the same venue on Heritage Day, Sep 24.
"It is indeed an honour for Cricket South Africa (CSA) to host the inaugural ICC World Twenty20, making history in doing so," CSA president Norman Arendse said.
"The fact that the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup will also be held in South Africa shows the international community's faith in South Africa hosting major sporting events."
Arendse said that it was sad Percy Sonn, a former CSA and ICC president, was not alive to witness the occasion.
"The ICC World T20 South Africa will be dedicated to his memory."
The tournament will be played at three venues – the Wanderers, Johannesburg; Kingsmead, Durban and Newlands, Cape Town.
"I am looking forward to the ICC World Twenty20 South Africa 2007 with a mix of pride and excitement," ICC president Ray Mali said.
"Pride because it is taking place in my home country of South Africa and I know we will do a great job of hosting the event and showcasing the game in the best possible light."