Holding added to Stanford board

Michael Holding has joined the Stanford 20/20 board after initially refusing the posting due to his commentary obligations. Allen Stanford, the competition's founder, pursued Holding for the board despite the fast-bowling great's past criticism of Twenty20 cricket.

However, Holding said the Stanford 20/20 tournament had more to offer than just the matches. "The programme that Sir Allen Stanford has developed is amazing and comprehensive," he said.

"It is much more than just playing Twenty20 cricket. It encompasses funding for territorial development and also provides an opportunity for many more players in the region to play in a well-organised and competitive tournament."

Holding joins 13 other West Indies champions on the board, including Sir Garfield Sobers, Sir Everton Weekes and Sir Viv Richards. "My hesitation to join the board because of my travel now appears to be an asset," Holding said. "Since Stanford 20/20 is now becoming a programme of global interest, I will be able to enhance the programme and contribute no matter where I am in the world."