The Bermuda public appears to be taking Premier Alex Scott?s words to heart and is supporting the decision to inject $11 million into Island cricket over the next five years.

Government announced this month that it will invest $11 million in cricket, in increments of $2 million or more per year, over the next five years.

?It is a new era for cricket in Bermuda and Government will do all it can to ensure that we are on the world cricket stage for many many years,? Mr. Scott said at the time. ?Your success is our success and as a community we will rally around you, support you, applaud you, pay for you and welcome you home after you have done the best that you could do to represent yourselves, your administrators and your country.?

It is hoped that the cash injection will help capitalise on the momentum created by the Island?s qualification for the 2007 World Cup.

Bermuda is the smallest country to qualify for the competition.

The money will be used to finance an ambitious itinerary of international matches and training in the lead up to the World Cup. It will also be used to upgrade cricket facilities at schools and improve club facilities. Part of the funds will also be allocated to youth development programmes.asked nine locals on the streets of Hamilton if they supported the Government?s decision to invest the large sum of money in cricket. Of the nine people who answered the question eight people felt investing in the sport was a good idea.

A few people said that $11 million might be too much and that the Government should give part of the money to something else as well.

Karen Peters thought that a portion of the money should be donated to local charities that help the elderly, children and single mothers.

Out of the people polled only one person was categorically against the Government?s decision to invest in cricket.