PROVIDENCE, March 28: Early morning rain failed to dampen World Cup spirits at the newly-built Providence stadium as South Africa took on Sri Lanka on Wednesday. Although the 15,000 capacity stadium, built with the support of the Indian government at a cost of US$25 million, was not even half-full, those inside were determined to enjoy the atmosphere at the problem-hit venue.

“It's a dream come true for us and we have shown the world that we can do what is required to host an international match,” said an official of the local organising committee, angered at the negative publicity over the facilities.

Not many people had believed the stadium would be ready for the Super Eight matches and even the local organising committee and World Cup chiefs were at loggerheads over the readiness of the ground.

Last week, a British events company was drafted in at the last minute to ensure the stadium was finished.

The Cup organisers had feared problems with security and crowd control turnstiles, poor accreditation facilities and video boards could mar the matches but official said a lot of late work was put in to remedy the situation.

“We have worked overnight to stage the matches in a top class manner and are very happy to contribute to the World Cup,” said the official, who also expected the Guyanese President Bharrat Jagdeo to witness the match later on Wednesday.

Among the scores of flag-bearing Sri Lankan fans was Roy Alvis who has come to follow his team in the West Indies.

“I am so proud to follow my team,” said Alvis, 37, who was wearing a Sri Lankan team shirt.

“I am so happy at the facilities, the International Cricket Council and the World Cup organisers should be complimented for the excellent facilities and I am happy that poor countries are being able to stage international matches,” said Alvis.

The locals, however, seem to have saved their enthusiasm for the April 1 match, featuring hosts West Indies and Sri Lanka.

“Man, it's no use watching other teams. Come Sunday, we'll fill the stadium,” said Ian Graimes.

“Teams like Ireland and England do not have quality players and many of my Muslim friends now want to stay at home because India and Pakistan are not in the event.”—AFP