Forget the razzmatazz, get on with the cricket…

LONDON, MAY 13: The Cricket World Cup organisers said here on Thursday they had decided to cut out the razzmatazz and get on with the gam...

LONDON, MAY 13: The Cricket World Cup organisers said here on Thursday they had decided to cut out the razzmatazz and get on with the game when the event starts here on Friday.

They have opted for a low-profile start to the tournament, which begins with England’s match against holders Sri Lanka in front of a sell-out crowd of 30,000 at Lord’s.

Tournament director Michael Browning said: "I don’t think people are interested in a big send-off – they just want to get the cricket started."

He said there would be plenty of colour but added: "I think most people who are coming to the game would rather it was done this way than have a ceremony which goes on and on and becomes rather boring."

Prime Minister Tony Blair is expected to open the tournament, and a flypast by helicopters is planned.

At the 1996 World Cup, the opening ceremony in Calcutta lasted several hours and included fireworks and a laser show. Many people later criticised it as a waste of money.

Friday’s programme will last just 15 minutesbefore the game starts. The approach is likely to go down well with the players, who are bursting to get into action after a week of low-key practice games.