Hurricanes could spell big trouble

An above-average hurricane season in the Caribbean could spell trouble for building and renovation efforts at 12 stadiums selected to host matches for the 2007 cricket World Cup, the event8217;s managing director said.

Construction crews are aiming to finish work at stadiums in nine countries by the year end. The 51-match tournament, which will be held for the first time in the Caribbean, is expected to draw about 100,000 people.

Officials have backup plans to substitute a venue in case a tropical storm damages a stadium beyond repair, but a bad hurricane could be devastating, said Chris Dehring, who is overseeing the sport8217;s biggest event for the ICC.

8220;There is virtually nothing you can do, but wait and see what happens during hurricane season and hope for the best,8221; Dehring said.