Kumble, Warne in 6-over lucrative tournament

Apart from the Test nations — Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the West Indies — the host country will field a team, there will be an All Star selection and a wildcard.

Among players confirmed for the All Stars are India captain Anil Kumble, former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak, New Zealander Craig McMillan, Australian great Shane Warne and Sri Lanka’s Romesh Kaluwitharana.

Each of the first three legs will offer USD 285,000 in prize money with the series concluding at a finale in the first quarter of 2009 for the top six teams, where the winner takes home one million dollars.

“With all the games and some of the big names we will have on the All Star team packed into one weekend, it is an ideal format,” said Warne, who will captain the All Stars.

“All the guys are looking forward to visiting some great cities where we can help grow the game as well, so it is a great concept.”

Organisers said they were in talks with the International Cricket Council to have the tournament officially sanctioned. The sixes is the shortest and most dynamic form of the game, featuring six-player teams, with the premium on fast and furious entertainment and a party atmosphere.

The first leg in Singapore will be held from July 4-6 at the Singapore Cricket Club’s Padang ground.