Vodafone World Cup Weather Line (1 June 1999)

1 June 1999

Vodafone World Cup Weather Line

ECB World Cup Media Release

BBC weatherman and 1999 Cricket World Cup Ambassador, John Kettley is producing daily weather forecasts on behalf of 1999 Cricket World Cup sponsors Vodafone. His forecasts so far are proving to be considerably more accurate than the bowling in the World Cup. While most of the bowlers have struggled to control the ball and there have been an average of 24 wides per match, Kettley has been delivering very detailed and accurate weather forecasts for each of the 21 venues used during the World Cup.

Kettley is himself a keen cricketer. He used to play league cricket for Todmorden, the only Yorkshire club side who played in the Lancashire League. He now restricts himself to occasional appearances for the Lord's Taveners. His love of the game and cricket knowledge has enabled him to deliver more than just a weather forecast and he has been able to introduce details, for example, on the importance of the toss and the likelihood of early morning swing for the seam bowlers.

Commenting on the Vodafone World Cup Weatherline, Kettley said. "Prior to the start of the tournament there was a lot of concern about how early in the season the matches had been scheduled. The sceptics have certainly been proved wrong and only one of the 30 group matches has run over into the reserve day. As far as my forecasts are concerned, it's a case of so far so good and I'm hopeful that I can continue to bring good news for the remainder of the Carnival of Cricket".

The Vodafone World Cup Weatherline number is: 08700 7 12041 and John Kettley's reports are available from 8.00am on the morning of each match.

Nigel Currie, Mobile: 0374 229305
Craigie Taylor International
Tel: 01483 209820

Source :: ECB Release