Jermaine Lannaman, Star Writer

Limacol Caribbean Premier League (LCPL) director, Jamie Stewart, said the signing on of Scotiabank as an official sponsor of the tournament is a step in the right direction, and he looks forward to working with the organisation in trying to better West Indies cricket.

The sponsorship, which was announced yesterday, will see Scotiabank, among other things, participating in community outreach projects the tournament plans to undertake, which according to Stewart is part of the wide-reaching impact the tournament hopes to have on the game.

"Scotiabank has long been synonymous with the development of cricket in the Caribbean," said Stewart.

"The LCPL aims to spark a renewal, and renaissance of cricket in the region, and in that sense Scotiabank is the obvious partner.

"We hope to work together to build out LCPL community initiatives and we thank Scotiabank for supporting this landmark venture."

The LCPL, which will feature six regional club franchise teams, will bowl off with Kieron Pollard-led Barbados Tridents going up against Darren Sammy's St Lucia Zouks at Kengsinton Oval.

It will feature 24 matches, and will be played across four countries, Barbados, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica.

Heather Goldson, Marketing Director of Scotiabank English Caribbean, in outlining her company's pleasure to the associated with the tournament, said she hoped the sponsorship will in the end benefit West Indies cricket.

"Scotiabank has had a presence in the Caribbean for more than 125 years, and with Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket we have been committed to youth cricket for 14 years. This year, we are taking the game to the next level by sponsoring the LCPL T20 Tournament," said Goldson.

"We are excited about becoming the official bank of the LCPL, and contributing to the growth of a sport that celebrates Caribbean heritage."

Jamaica's franchise club team, Jamaica Tallawahs, which will be captained by Chris Gayle, are set to play their first match against Guyana Amazon Warriors at the Providence Stadium in Guyana.

The Tallawahs will play six preliminary round matches with their final three matches slated for Sabina Park on August 14, 16 and 18.