Bermuda is rolling out the red carpet for cricket today!

Twelve members of the Venue Assessment Team (VAT) for the ICC Cricket World Cup (CWC) West Indies 2007 will be given almost royal treatment today in a whirlwind tour as this island paradise seeks a share of cricket?s greatest spectacle.

Government, the Bermuda Cricket Board (BCB) and corporate Bermuda are combining to make this an unforgettable experience for the VAT as they complete their visits to the 11 regional countries battling to host the Cricket World Cup matches.

The Police-escorted group of delegates will meet with Government and cricket officials.

They will also meet the media as well as tour the National Sports Centre and be given a scenic trip along South Shore en route to lunch at Fairmont Southampton.

Bermuda is the VAT?s final stop before its members head to London to deliberate with the International Cricket Council (ICC) about which nations should be named as host venues come July 4.

?We are as ready as we will ever be to receive them...I think we are well positioned to show Bermuda in its true light ? the hospitality of our people, the strength of our infrastructure, our organisational skills ? to convince them that we are a strong contender to host matches,? said director of Youth & Sport Anthony Roberts yesterday.

Indeed, it?s a 24-hour opportunity for Bermuda to prove that the VAT saved the best for last.See Sport, Page 17