As the Island?s senior team seek to boost their coffers ahead of the 2007 World Cup, the younger generation of cricketers have already secured sponsorship of their own.

The Bermuda Cricket Board?s (BCB) Under-13 League programme last week received a three-year financial handshake from the Bermuda Security Group (BSG).

Disclosing the deal, BSG president and chief executive officer Herman Tucker said his company believed the development of sport should be encouraged at an early age and was intent on ensuring this happens with the country?s young cricketers.

?This group of over 200 of our young children will likely give rise to Bermuda?s future Cup Match and World Cup players and therefore they are to be encouraged and supported by as many people as possible.

?We thank the BCB for presenting this partnership opportunity to Bermuda Security Group and we look forward to some exciting cricket from our youngsters as the league progresses,? said Tucker at a Press conference in Victoria Park.

The BSG chief noted the Under-13 players would ?not only develop their cricket abilities but just as importantly learn values and discipline which can be applied to the development of life skills? during the pursuit of their favourite sport.

Sports Minister Dale Butler lauded BSG for ?stepping up to the wicket? and supporting youth cricket.

?The Bermuda Security Group have recognised this need and are a shining example of corporate Bermuda supporting our young people,? he said, urging parents and fans to come out and watch the Friday matches in this ?excellent youth programme?.

Like Tucker, Butler made the comparison between sport and life, stressing that several ?life lessons? such as discipline, leadership and teamwork can be learned from cricket.