Someone said to me recently that the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 was just two (2) months away and counting down. It was really hard to believe as it seemed like only yesterday I was watching the Opening Ceremony of the last cup held in South Africa. That tournament, as billed, turned out to be a grand affair with the Australians gaining their third hold on the trophy.

In just 34 short days, it will be the Caribbean's turn on the world stage. From all reports, despite the many "doubting Thomases", it seems that most things are or will be in place to host a successful event over the scheduled two (2) months.

My only disappointment is that if you are unable to be on spot to enjoy the cricket and soak up some of the lovely sunshine, then apart from the regular TV coverage which may be expensive in some markets, "ball by ball" coverage on what is fast becoming my favorite medium - the Web, will be sadly lacking.

There are those who argue that live sports on the Internet is missing the key ingredient of ambiance" and the "high definition" quality we have become accustomed to, but technological constraints aside, especially for cricket, it's an idea whose time has certainly come. Many people who love cricket but are unable to get International coverage especially if they reside in certain markets such as the Caribbean or North America, will know exactly what I am talking about.  

Take the current tri-nation series involving Australia, England and New Zealand for example. With the "unofficial world champions of cricket" (Australia) involved, fresh from their total demolition of Andrew Flintoff and his "band of pretenders" and the 2007 Cricket World Cup just around the corner, I am sure that cricket fans would love to get a taste of what is happening Downunder. However, if you do not live in the countries involved in the series,  chances you are out of luck. Instead you can enjoy CricInfo's 3D Cricket coverage of the matches at your own leisure.

Wow! Live animated cricket in full color on the Web. CricInfo must be given a lot of credit for responding to the needs of surfers (cricket fans) but I just can't imagine in this day and age why someone would sit and watch a live game of cricket or any sport for that matter in 3D. Even if it's "ball by ball" and you can change the viewing angles, I am sorry, that is just not for me! Not at a time with all that money in cricket and with Broadband  technology (Optical Fiber for the lucky ones)that can deliver the real thing on my desk.

I can't help but wonder when the "dinosaurs" who are in control of world cricket will awaken from their long slumber. Here it is in 2007, with Web 2.0 in full swing and the best we can do is offer International Cricket in 3D. I will definitely pass on this one.

It is hard to imagine what it would be like saying to Football fans in America that the live games will be available in 3D. Right...that would be the day!

Cricket lovers who sit and ponder why cricket for so long has been on the decline and why so many kids choose instead to be locked to their 3D game consoles or get involved in sports, more of the North American flavor should now have a clear answer.

As I said before, I truly wish CricInfo all the very best in this innovative endeavour. I am even sure that even with regular TV coverage, with the prohibitive cost, many will still be tuning in. It's the ultimate price paid by loyal fans because of the backwardness and greed of Cricket Administrators and TV Networks.

In summing up I can only say one thing: Not having the 2007 Cricket World Cup broadcast on the Web would be a a real pity. There is no doubt in my mind that the time would be right to use arguably man's greatest invention - the Net, to introduce and showcase to the world the "beautiful game of cricket" in a venue that can only be described as paradise on earth.