CAPE TOWN, Jan 23: A “spectacular” opening ceremony has been promised by organisers of the 2003 cricket World Cup to be played in South Africa.

The announcement was made Wednesday by the World Cup organising committee at Newlands Cricket Ground venue for the ceremony on Feb 8, 2003.

For the first time, the World Cup will also feature a closing ceremony after the final at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on March 23.

About 5,000 performers and 1,000 back-up staff are expected to be required for the ceremonies, with 180 rehearsals taking place in the six months leading up to the tournament.

Dr Ali Bacher, executive director of the organising committee, said: “We have confidence that the company running the show has the skills and expertise to produce an event of this magnitude.

“In winning the tender to organise the event, the company gave the assurance that black people will be significantly empowered by the event.”—Reuters