A sport in shock
Kingston - The most disturbing week in my eight years as a sports journalist took a shocking turn for the worse tonight.
The news that I had been fearing was confirmed when it was revealed that Bob Woolmer was murdered.
My hotel is a five-minute walk from the Pegasus Hotel, which has been overrun with journalists since Sunday. It has been an unpleasant eye-opener for someone who has lived a relatively sheltered life.
I'm supposed to be here for the biggest event in our sport and I have had to remind myself of that at times.
The last 96 hours have been dominated by macabre gossip and innuendo, as various media outlets look to get in there first with the scoop.
This morning's news conference with Brian Lara ahead of his West Indies team’s final group game against Ireland, was like escaping an inferno, while talking to Ireland coach Adie Birrell and paceman Dave Langford-Smith was blissful.
But there was no escaping the fact that this tournament is no longer just about sport.
This evening I arrived an hour and a half ahead of the news conference, feeling queasy at the latest rumours about the cause of death.
As soon as those were confirmed by a police spokesman, the shockwaves could be felt around the room.
I would love to move on and look ahead to the Windies-Ireland game. I would love to think about the exciting and dramatic clashes ahead in the Super Eight stage.
But right now I can't.
An Australian journalist told me in the morning: "No-one will remember who lifts this World Cup. It will be the tournament at which Bob Woolmer died."
I'm inclined to agree and, in fact, I don't really care who wins it at the moment.
On Saturday night this tournament was shaping up to be possibly the best World Cup in history due to the wonderful setting, the passionate locals and the entertaining cricket offered up to that point.
Sunday afternoon onwards has proven to be a tragic episode of media speculation and conjecture that has thrown a cloud over the cricket spectacle and deprived us of one of the good guys of the game.
I fear this tournament may be remembered in the manner the Australian journalist suggests.
Complain about this postEven if West Indies create history by being the first hosts to win the tournament or even if Australia win the cup for the fourth time it wont really matter.
The death of Bob Woolmer is something that has already marred this world cup and so it shall be.
I do wish cricket resumes normal service but dont think thats going to be the case judging by the serpentine manner his death's investigation is unfolding.
Life does move on but for me personally Bob Woolmer was such an influence that I think I'll take some time before I start enjoying cricket like i used to.
Complain about this postIn all honesty in light of the tragic news that Bob Woolmer's death is now been treated as murder,
Complain about this posti don't think i have the heart to watch the tournament any further.
I wonder just what will become of all this, it would be a drastic thing, but i think the event should be cancelled.
Among the surreal elements surrounding Bob Wollmer's most tragic death was a comment that he had been instrumental in the victory of the Ireland team over Pakistan. For he had spent some time coaching the Irish team. I wonder if you could confirm this?
Complain about this postThis is a crazy world. Just gone onto the sports pages here in Japan and have seen that a death by murder has been confirmed. Shocking, and it will cast a dark shadow over this World Cup, regardless of how successful it is on the field.
Complain about this postGo home, everyone, and mourn the death of Bob Woolmer. There is nothing more to be done.
Complain about this postI am indeed sadden by the death of Robert Woolmer.He was a great ambassador for our beautiful game. Cricket is worst off without Bob's scientific approach to coaching.He was very meticulous in the manner he plan for every game.
Complain about this postThis is dreadful news.....casts a terrible shadow on the rest of the CWC.
Complain about this postTo my knowledge he did not ever coach the Irish team or any team in Ireland.
Complain about this postIt looks like a very serious crime has been committed. The person or persons responsible have killed more than a person. They may have killed the romance and beauty of sport. They may have killed the idea of fair play and genuine competition. They may have killed the innocent perception of sport as a pastime, an entertainment, an enjoyment and a fair challenge. Shame on them. The sooner they are apprehended, charged and convicted the better.
Bob Woolmer rest in peace.
Im gutted - my heart goes out to his family. A potentially great world cup ruined. No matter what happens from now on - this years' is overshadowed. I hate it when average players get elevated above themselves in their passing but surely this is a case inwhich the deceased must surely have the cup renamed in their honour, especially as he was so respected in so many cricketing countries. RIP Bob
Complain about this postI hate to sound callous but this is now a police investigation. The events may or may not be linked to the CWC. in reality its hard to escape the apparent connection.
The competition is only getting noticed here because of the tragic incident of Woolmer's death. Regretfully, there is no such thing in this media age as bad publicity.
Watching Figure skating worlds playing to a full arena in Tokyo, and hearing about the sad empty stadiums at CWC, the bigger tragedy would be for cricket to shoot itself in the foot yet again by cancelling the competition. Letting in schoolkids is fine, but how did the ICC let this event degenerate?
After the farce of CWC 2003, the WC itself is threatened. The 2007 CWC is not working, and seriously needs a jolt. Not off the field, but on it.
Time to move on or be trampled by other competing events. Wake up, cricket fans!
Complain about this postI think the ICC have an easy decision to make, call the World Cup off, life is too short. The ICC need to send a message to address those off the field distractions
Complain about this postCricket has been disgusted by the news of Bob Woolmer's murder. This news is much more pathetic and atrocious than it seems. Cricket needs a reality checl. If people are getting murdered, getting hurt, fans attacking players' residences due to a loss, i think we should stop this game right here. It's simply sickening.
Complain about this postAbsolutely awful news. My goodness, I feel so sorry for Mr. Woolmer's wife and family. This is an absolute tragedy for the sport of cricket.
Complain about this postThe passing of Bob Woolmer is a shocking news to all the cricket fans and followers. With the statement from the Jamaican Police that they are treating this case as a murder, is even more heartning.
The author has correctly said that this world cup will be remembered more for the demise of Bob Woolmer rather than who lifts the cup finally.
To see cricket as a game reach such lows, we can only hope that game comes out of it and re-establishes itself as a religion / culture.
Complain about this postParesh
Would you please change the spelling of Wollmer to Woolmer in my post.
Go well Alan
Complain about this postSand, surf, cricket...murder! Still, lets go the Avery Brundage way: The games must go on!
Complain about this postThe World Cup is a huge circus act driven by economics, isn't it?
don't weep my friend.
Complain about this postThat is the life.everybody cant win.someone should lose.but pakistani players are good.
Pakistan lose the match because of the absence of aktar and asif.If aktar was there,irelanders would not win it.
Sorry for Wooly's tragic death!
It's very shocking to me! Truth is, I played cricket in my youth, but moved to Canada from Guyana about 32 years, and haven't watched cricket until this World Cup Event. It's the first time I am following World Cup Cricket, after 3 decades. So, you can imagine how disappointing it is for me to see that a well-respected coach gets killed on account of the game of cricket. Perhaps, the true "gentle people's sport" is not cricket, but golf. My condolences to Mr. Woolmer's family.
Complain about this postFirst and foremost my heartfelt condolences to the Woolmer family.
What has cricket come to - I thought it was a "Gentleman's Game". However, it seems today it is only about money!!!!!!!!!!!!!! However, to resort to murder.............
Well done Malcolm Speed - let us not stop the tournament - though as most people say - this World Cup which was turnging out to be one of the most interesting one, will now only be remembered as "The World Cup when Bob was murdered.
Fans wake up and enjoy the game as a game - cricketers are human - you win some you lose some - quit burning efigys and breaking down houses and now this murder........ we do not know who is responsible - but cricket is being viewed in a totally different perspective these days - not for the enjoyment of a good game.
The phrase 'that's not cricket' no longer holds good.
Complain about this postSo. it is simply clear that lack of security to the circketers and officials might have contributed to the murder of Woolmer. Over the years Cricket has changed a lot in terms of money. There is a lot of money involved in cricket now a days. So organizers should look in to the matter seriously and tighten the security to the teams and officials during the world cup. They should have anticipated more than this tragedy. ICC must take responsibility for this failure. It is no more a gentlemen's game.
Complain about this postAs this world cup 2007 has been marred by the death of Bob woolmer, there are certain speculation coming out in the media and in mind of different cricket fans and sports fan. Certain Match fixing speculation has may hit the motivation of Ireland players after their Great and historic win over pakistanis. So such unwanted speculation has to be kept aside from media headlines and Ireland has to move forward. Although with time everything move forward, Death of Bob woolmer keep surrounding this world cup regardless of any team winning this worldcup. And with time truth behind the death will come out, But there remains the Big Question mark on the Pakistanis Cricketing future.
Complain about this postAll the spot lights on one event… fan, frolic and cricket world cup. Suddenly murder of a cricket coach. Frankly it seems a plot out of a Hollywood thriller. Unfortunately its real life and we have lost a great servant of cricket. Does it really matters if this cup continues or not? If you take it as a statistical event, that one man died and show must go on than yes it must. But if you consider that Bob Woolmer, a great cricket icon and more importantly a husband, a father, a friend, a gentle human being has died ….. well I don’t feel that any fun is left in this world cup.
Complain about this postjeez - murder!
and now someone arrested, according to R5L news at 0600...
Complain about this postThe ICC love to have people cheering in the stadiums and around the globe (for monetary gain) when a distinguished man as Bob Woolmer has been murdered! That's sick. Gentlemens Game? It rains so often during cricket matches as there is always a cloud hanging over.
Complain about this postIt would be noble and probably the best thing to do to go home. But it would bankrupt the West Indies. They need the world cup to go on or cricket will die as an organisation there. That is the only reasoni can think of as to why the world cup should continue. If it was in England or Australia then it should be immediately cancelled.
Complain about this postthere is still worse to come i.e., when the murderer is caught and the name comes to light!
Complain about this postThis is unacceptable someone should seriously think about stepping up security for these big events.
Complain about this postThanks for your openness Paresh.
I'm sure you speak for the majority of us who can't understand just why Bob Woolmer would be murdered.
It's a tragic waste, and will blight this World Cup forever.
But surely, what the teams, management and fans must do, while paying respect to Woolmer's legacy, is ensure we have some sport to talk about, and focus on. Let the news journalists cover the news, and let the sports journalists cover the game. At least then we would be moving forward, while still respecting Woolmer.
Complain about this postIf Bob Woolmer were to have died of natural causes in the middle of a World Cup competition, it would be nothing short of unsettling; to have been murdered is bizzarre. The sports world, in particular cricket, shares a deep sense of sorrow and anger over the shocking revelation of the cause of death.
Much has been learned about Mr Woolmer since his death. If all that is written is true, one can conclude that he held a deep sense of reverence for the game of cricket.
Bob Woolmer would have wanted the games to continue. In the most crowded and competitive field of World Cup Cricket to date, Bob would have wanted the sensational plays, the records broken and the new records set, to be how these games are remembered. He would have applauded the exploits of the winning team and their path to the historic moment of victory as the story of the World Cup Cricket 2007 - not his death. In Bob Woolmer's honour, "let's play ball"
Complain about this postI cannot believe the tournament is continuing in light of this shocking event - it is an absolute disgrace and Malcolm Speed, the ICC and the cricketing fraternity should be ashamed. I will not be following cricket anymore for a long, long time.
Complain about this postAs a pakistani, I grieved at the loss of a match. Then I grieved at the loss of a friend. And today, after hearing that it was murder, I grieve at the loss of a game that I once had loved.
When we bury Bob let us hope we don't bury the innocent beauty of cricket alongwith him.
To all pakistanis I say... Bob was a noble man, let us honour him
Complain about this postIts very very sad to learn about the murder of Bob Woolmer.
He was always there to speak on "Sportsworld" programme to Russell Fuller. I have heard his comments live on air on BBC worldservice so many times..he was always cool calm and collected.
I also cant help thinking this event is exactly where Agatha Christie would bring Hercule Poirot!!
So many Poirot mysteries are based on such an ill fated event happening on Picnics,Schools,Cruises etc.
Hope Monsieur Mark Shields is our Poirot !!
Complain about this postI still am having difficulty understanding why security wasnt high in a place like jamaica,wheres it had been so much publicized that crime rate was high. Surely the Hotel security should of been at its utmost best especially where the players were staying.???
Complain about this postIts a Sad day..especially for the pakistani team.But i see many pointing the finger at pakistan. Its absolutley distgusting.And the fatc that theyre allowed(and published here!!) without their being any proof is even more distgusting!!!!!!!!!
Complain about this postThe sprit of cricket must prevail and the competition must continue in Bob’s memory. There is no room in a sport that gives joy to millions for such acts.
Once the dust has settled and the trophy lifted ICC should fully help with investigation and act on any findings.
Complain about this postMay ur pitch in sky be even paced ,the boundaries short and the always blue.
Complain about this postThe show must go on, Mr Woolmer would have wanted the show to go on as Cricket must win in this situation, for the good of the game and the good of the lovely West Indian People who have put so much into it.
A message to the Police and ICC............MAKE SURE YOU GET THE ANIMALS RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS AND MAKE SURE YOU SORT OUT ONCE AND FOR ALL THE SO CALLED BOOKIES WHO ARE RUINING THIS SPORT WHICH IS LOVED BY MILLIONS WORLD WIDE, THE BLAME LIES TOTALLY WITH THEM, IF TEMPTATION IS NOT PUT IN PLAYERS WAY, THEY WOULD NOT TAKE IT.
A message to the illigal bookies........YOUR TIME IS UP MATE, YOU WILL BE FOUND, YOU WILL BE PUNISHED AND YOU WILL END UP IN THAT STINKING HOLE YOU CRAWLED OUT FROM..........
REST IN PEACE BOB.......
Complain about this postBob Woolmer loved cricket, and I'm sure the very last thing he would have wanted to happen would be for the world cup to be abandoned. The best tribute now would be to continue what has on the field so far been an enthralling competition in his memory, and perhaps even name the Cup after him. I am sure where he is, he's looking forward to watching India v Sri Lanka and Australia v South Africa just as much as the rest of us.
Complain about this postThink of all the things you have enjoyed in your life since the deaths of Princess Diana and Ayrton Senna. Life will go on and this feeling will be forgotten. That's how we humans are.
Complain about this postThis is terrible.
I think the tournament should be postponed out of respect -- and until those responsible are caught.
Complain about this postA dark day for the game of cricket
Complain about this postIt is such a dire shame that such a thing like this has happened. Cricket always has and always should be just a game. It should never be like football where you have violence and murder (as you see quite often in Italy).
If it is any of the players who are found guilty of involvement in the murder then I agree with the point that the whole country should be banned from playing cricket. I think to be passionate is one thing but then to go over the top is just absolutely pathetic. I think it would be a harsh punishment but the only way to make people wake up and realise that it is just a game is to do such a thing.
Complain about this postI reciprocate feelings of Mr.Paresh Soni. Luster of the most prolific tournament in Cricket has been totally over shadowed by this atrocious, unpardonable incident.
The game has not remained a game to be participated or followed in spirit of Sports.
Too much commercialization by ICC has rendered the sport a Business activity rather than a sport to be enjoyed. ICC along with BCCI who is equally responsible for commercialization of this sport need to have a serious rethink for longevity of Cricket in minds of the mass following the game.
Complain about this postFirst i would like to applaud you Paresh on your comment, I am sure you went to the world cup looking forward to commentating on the cricket and i sense from your post that you have found yourself in a situation far from what you expected. I can't imagine how you go about composing a blog in the current circumstances and yet somehow you have delivered a sensitive message and conveyed the sadness which has descended on the wc.
Complain about this postSurely now the true value of sport will prevail. Mr Woolmers family aside, the people most affected by this turn of events will be the people who have to stand in the field and compete. Thoughts of "what are we doing here after what has happened" will be swirling around and there will be a concsiuos reluctance to take any enjoyment from the remaining games. However sport is a celebration of life, cricket it is a game to be enjoyed and to provide enjoyment. Spectator sports provide a distraction to the onlooker, they allow us switch off from all the difficult realities we face and become absorbed in something that has no consequence. The Death of Bob Woolmer is not a consequence of cricket, it is a consequence of a few men, and cricket should not be blamed. To the players I say play on, and enjoy yourselves, to disrespect your sport would be a disrespect to Bob Woolmer.
Match fixing is a huge industry, run by very powerful people...the ICC have to long tip toed around the problem and made half hearted attempts to deal with it; they need to get their heads out of the sand and take action...otherwise they are nothing more than a toothless bunch of fat cat bureaucrats
Complain about this postBob was murdered, this report was confirmed yesterday but we are hearing it since tuesday in one of very famous indian news channel.Well what is media bringing out of it, no one can understand but one thing for sure they know how to capture the audience.Well i as a Pakistani strongly feel for Bob and his family and the stigma that some indian news channels are trying to put on pakistan team that they are supsects. infact they should be because in murder case police doesnt even believe any brother or wife relationship and it was a team and coach relationship. but the way i saw in one channel last night that president by giving him sitarae-i-imtiaz, is trying to divert the attention of people around the world that pakistanis are not involved.Well God knows what happened and may the Jamaican police be successful in bringing out the truth from this but whoever the criminal is whether from pakistan team(cant believe that) or any other pakistani fan or the people involved in sprots crimes, they should be strongly punished so the whole world can come out of their pain. But my request to all readers specially Mr. Akshay is that dont get involved in speculations and act strongly until you know the truth. Becuase there is a punishment of every crime and criminal...
Complain about this postAs a doctor, (and as a sports fan), I felt early on that Bob Woolmer's death was very suspicious. I work in A&E, and there are very few drug overdoses (which for several days seemed to be the likelihood) which result in such a quick death. Once it was widely known that Bob - as a dibetic - wasn't on insulin (one of the few drugs that COULD cause rapid death), my colleagues and I speculated that this could well have been the result of foul play.
Complain about this postTragic, and horrible.
This tournament must continue. The guilty parties must be brought to account. The trophy must from now on be called the Bob Woolmer Trophy. That's not patronising, not excessive; he was a great coach, and although there may be many great players who would deserve the accolade of having a trophy named for them, these circumstances, if they prove to have been foul play, must be shown to be unacceptable. Even if it wasn't foul play, there is merit in naming the trophy in his honour; please use any influence you have to suggest this.
James.
Would it not be a fitting tribute to name the World Cup in Bob's honour and show the evil people who killed our Bob that they will never profit from their actions
Love to Bob's family and friends
Rest in Peace Bob Woolmer
Complain about this postI have been in love with cricket for nearly 50 years and despite knocks to cricket with match fixing allegations and the like, cricket has risen above it.
Today Cricket is once again is making news headlines for the wrong reasons.
The statement today regarding Bob has made me so sad to think this guy has been taken from his loved ones. It is unbearable and beyond belief that this has happened.
I for one think that the BBC should open a website book by which we can leave our sincere condolancies to pass on to his family, to see how much Bob was respected.
Fred.
Complain about this postThe murder of Bob Woolmer is an horrendous loss to Cricket and even more so to his family, yet life and livelihoods must continue but this truly sad event should perhaps be used as a reality check. Cricket was once known as a gentleman's sport both on and off the field generally played by mem with impeccable standards - What is happening to it? How would the great commentators / writers of the past such as Cardus, Swanton, Arlott and Johnston cope with such a storyline. This game - almost a heritage - once the backbone of English Summer life has been drawn into the commerical world by ever greedy media companies (across the world) and is now completely money driven. When the television companies start to dictate how and when game is played the true spirit of the game starts to diminish.
If anything is to be learnt in the long term from this whole shocking episode it is that Cricket should be played with the spirit, honesty and dedication displayed by the late Mr Woolmer as a player and latterly as a coach.
From what I have read he embodied the true spirit of the game.
Complain about this postMy first thoughts on this were murder, but I didn't want to believe it. Now it appears these may have been realised. Like many people on here before have said, it is going to take a long time before I can watch cricket again.
Complain about this postIt reminds me of when I was 8, and the Colombian goalkeeper was shot dead. Somehow this seems worse, because Bob was a massive part of cricket for more than 30 years.
God bless you Bob, we're all going to miss you.
If everytime someone was murdered you stopped whatever they were involved in, we would be doing nothing but mourning. I am not a cricket fan at all, I don't know anything about this man other than what I read this week. I would imagine, he wouldn't have wanted people to stop and to continue. Most of you in shock are being disengenuous. Thousands of people are being murdered in Somalia, Iraq, Afganistan and you are doing what about it? The Cricket World Cup can, when it is won be Called the Bob Woolmer Memorial trophy. That perhaps would be a fitting tribute?
Complain about this postThis World Cup has turned into an event no one will ever forget, and for all the wrong reasons. If it comes to light that any team or country is connected with Bob Woolmer's murder, I think the ICC should impose a ban on the team or country concerned. I also think it is high time that cricket 'fans' start behaving themselves and should be made to account for themselves, like football hooligans have been made to. Attacks on players' houses, violence in the streets should incur an immediate limited ban on the team concerned, which is the only way that these fanatics will learn to curb their shenanigans.
Complain about this postA real sad day in the world of cricket.
Bob, may your soul rest in peace.My prayers and thoughts are with the bereaved family.
I think that though this has happened, the World Cup has to go ahead.There have been a lot of sacrifices and pains which have gone in organizing this world cup.
I would also like to finally propose a salute to Bob Woolmer - one of the most respected coaches...
Complain about this postBob Woolmer's death has clearly cast a shadow over the World Cup. Whilst I am in two minds about whether the competition should continue, the general ICC/CWC response has been nothing short of pathetic. Check out their website - a single statement, itself barely featured on the site. All the commercial, happy, shiny stuff dominates the site. And Woolmer is still listed as coach of Pakistan, with outlines of what he is going to do. Shockingly insensitive and indicative of a sport that really doesn't care.
Complain about this postCancel the tournament and lets all go home. After Woolmer's murder, quite frankly who gives a stuff about who wins.
Complain about this postMy sympathies go out to Bob Woolmers family, how terrible must they be feeling now??
Whatever stupidity is behind this and especially if it's money or misguided pride, it's sport, it should be about HEALTHY COMPETITION not bloody life or death.
Professional sport is becoming a horrible cash driven monster with too much at stake for the inevitable loser. No game is worth a life is it?
GP
Complain about this postShocking news indeed; let us hope the perpetrator(s) do not escape justice.
But cancel the CMC? My impression is that Bob Woolmer lived for cricket, be it as a player, when with the ICC development group or latterly as a coach. I think the mere fact he lived away from his family and home while coaching the Pakistan team is testament to that.
Would he want the tournament cancelled? I can't see it myself.
Complain about this postThis is totally unacceptable that a man should loose his life over a game that was his life, cricket!
For me, the World Cup has lost that little something that game brings but ultimately the show must go on!
Complain about this postIt is clear this has affected a lot of people. Maybe what is required is some sort of break in the world cup, a period of two or three days perhaps. This will allow some time for the people of cricket to gather their thoughts, reflect on Bob's life, mourn and come to terms with he nature of Bob's death as best they can. Just ploughing through the tournament won't give people the proper opportunity to deal with their feelings,and abandoning the tournament completely is probably the wrong thing to do. The best thing - in my opinion - to do is to try and draw some sort of line under it, after which the cricket can continue. While no-one would feel entirely better after the break, I believe it would help them.
Complain about this postThis is a sporting tragedy and I hope that the perpetrators are brought to account.
I would also say that, whilst this conspiracy speculation is exciting in a perverse kind of way, this could just be the act of a disgruntled fan and we should allow the police investigation to provide some answers before we end up with some of the India/Pakistan politics getting out of hand.
I think that serious questions should be asked about the continuance of the competition for the simple fact that there is a murderer/s as yet unidentified, running around in the cricket community.
The ICC continually put pound notes before other, moral issues (it happened with the Zimbabwe stuff recently) and I respect the fact that there are millions of pounds tied up in this competition.
I just wish that the ICC would say, cancelling the competition could bankrupt us, rather than this insincere "for Bob" spin that I find rather distasteful. If it is "for Bob" then put the profits to one of his charities.
Complain about this postthe world cup has got to be cancelled, for someone to be murdered because of a game of cricket calls into question the whole spirit of this tournament...
An enormous amount of issues appeared to have followed the pakistan cricket team over the last 12 months... now resulting in the murder of the coach...
The participation of pakistan in world cricket has to be brought into question imho asap.
Complain about this postgutted.
Nice to read a journlist write about all the nonsense surrounding this event.
Who cares now who wins? I feel sick.
Complain about this postThe murder of Bob Woolmer is terrible.
Calling the tournament off maybe what the murderers wanted.
If you had a bet on Pakistan to win and the tournament was abandonned would all bets be refunded.
Complain about this postIt is a sad indictment of the times in which we live that after the most abhorrent of crimes, all that the authorities are concerned about is the West Indian economic situation if the World Cup is cancelled.
Complain about this postThis is surely what must happen as there will be no merit in winning this tournament now and more importantly it will allow the appropriate authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice and allow Bob,s family to grieve in peace.
I know that life must go on and sport will continue but the loss of even one life is infinately more important than thrashing a bit of old leather around a park with a bit of wood.
Wouldn,t it be good if the powers that be do the right thing for once and show a modicum of dignity and respect.
Bob woolmer's murder is despicable and the culprits must be found and punished. The investigation should not only cover the Pakistani players and officials but also players and officials from other countries with whom Mr Woolmer had been associated over the years. Afterall, he was the coach of South Africa when all sorts of match fixing allegations , some of which were proven to be true, were being hurled at the South African team. Also the general security situation in Jamaica (given its reputation for mindless violence), particularly around the the team hotel needs to be looked at.
Complain about this postIt is a tragic loss for Bob Woolmer's family and for the cricketing world. However, I believe the ICC have made the right decision in continuing the Cup.
How many times has it been said that we shouldn't let the actions of a certain few spoil the joy of many?
The wider cricketing repercussions of cancelling the CWC would be much worse than allowing it to continue, even if it is in the shadow of this terrible occurence. More importantly, I think it would show far greater respect to Bob Woolmer's name to let it continue in his honour, than for it to be remembered as the World Cup that was cancelled because of his death.
Let's enjoy the rest of a great tournament and give Bob the send off he deserves.
Alister
Complain about this postIf the allegations of match fixing are true, Pakistan should be 'disqualified' from the cup, and all points gained or lost against them should not be used in the group stage. This will leave Zim and Ireland on level points (should Ireland lose to WI), and then net run rate used to determine the better team, which I think would be the fairest way to go ahead with the world cup. Failure to do this would lead to Ireland always feeling that they qualified on the back of a great lie and Zim feeling that they were sent packing due to a conspiracy. Lets bring the gentleman back into the gentleman's game.
Complain about this postthere are many so called conspiracy theories doing the rounds at present and i feel we all need to detract ourselves from these regarding the tragedy with bob woolmer. Spare a thought for his family. his closest friends and lets put all our energies and faith in the jamican authorities bringing the murderer(s) to justice.
Complain about this postIt is completely reasonable to suspect foul play from someone who knew him or had access to the room. A detailed log and timings of arrivals and exits would now have been compiled, last conversations with bob have been recorded via statements and details regarding players, officilas and hotel staff whereabouts are a formality, my concern is the overall security surrounding this tragedy for all teams. It seems tragic that this occured almost immediately after pakistans loss to ireland, a coincidence that needs to be noted but not played up.
Thank you for a well written and moving piece.
Complain about this postBob Woolmer was a gentle and thoughtful man and it is impossible to imagine why anyone could inflict such a death on him.
Cricket was a huge part of his life and I'm sure he would wish the current competition to continue despite how difficult it will be for the players.
it would be fitting to name the cup in his honour as he was a truly world renowned cricketer.
There is a cliche: 'Life must go on'. Many people think, quite reasonably, that the Tournament should be cancelled as a mark of respect to Bob and his family (and others). It is a just a game after all.
I do not fully subscribe to this view, though I understand the sentiment. There are much wider issues. Apart from the fact that we all know that cricket was Bob's life and, ultimately his death, I am convinced that he would say the game is greater than the individual and must go on. There is also the view that we must not give in to terror of any sort, anywhere. I have read that many people have mentioned the years of planning and money that has been invested in the tournament, true but there is a greater issue here. To cancel the World Cup now could cause hardship to thousands of people throughout the Caribbean who have gained employment because of hosting the competition. There is another month to go and to cancel could cause hardship to many. Would Bob and his family (or anyone else want that?). In the longer term the upgrading of West Indian cricket grounds will provide better facilities and opportunities for Islands currently outside the Test grounds to host international matches, again providing income and employment to those Islands peoples. Is it any coincidence that the upgrading of The Recreation Ground, as it was then, in Antigua more or less coincided with the explosion of the Country as a major tourist resort that brought Antigua to the forefront as a stable, successful economy?
To sum up this rather lengthy observation, I believe, out of respect for Bob Woolmer, that the wider issues stated must be considered in the debate to cancel or continue with the World Cup and that the ICC decision to continue with it is the right one.
Complain about this postIf the allegations of match fixing are true, Pakistan should be 'disqualified' from the cup, and all points gained or lost against them should not be used in the group stage. This will leave Zim and Ireland on level points (should Ireland lose to WI), and then net run rate used to determine the better team, which I think would be the fairest way to go ahead with the world cup. Failure to do this would lead to Ireland always feeling that they qualified on the back of a great lie and Zim feeling that they were sent packing due to a conspiracy. Lets bring the gentleman back into the gentleman's game.
Complain about this postA few comments to make on the tragic news of BW's murder confirmation:
Complain about this post1) Every effort should be found to find his killer(s) and bring them to jusdtice.
20 BW's family should be considered and consoled.
3) The world cup should continue, but not at the expense of points 1 and 2.
Also, the tournement should be left as an opportunity to celebrate his life, and not mourn his death. Remember his achievements, and the great good that his influence has brought to the game of cricket. Don't lets let one act of evil take away alll the good that he has done.
Well said Paul Duffy. My first reaction on Saturday night when I heard the news was that this was not a natural death. And why? Because of the nation involved. First the Darell Hair issue, then Asif, Akhtar and performance enhancing drugs and now this. As someone who plays club cricket in an ethnically diverse league I have seen sides walk off in protest at a decision, players refuse to leave the pitch when given out because "a higher authority" disagreed with the umpire, been called a cheat because I knew the playing conditions when the other captain didn't and generally had to suffer abuse not acceptable on a cricket field. The idea of "it's a game of cricket" has totally gone out of the window and sides will do anything to win - because that's how it is on the TV. With the tragic escalation seen in the West Indies, how long before a similar event in grass roots cricket? How long ago the Ashes series of 2005 seems and what a false dawn for the true values of cricket it was.
Complain about this postThis has to be the most shocking news in sport since the Colombian football defender was murdered by gambling cartels after the 1994 World Cup in the USA. Absolutely unbelievable, Bob was murdered in his own hotel room by someone he knows? Feels more like a crime movie than anything. This is sickening. But why would anyone wanna kill him?
Complain about this postI am extremely upset by events, and cant see how in reality this CWC can continue. I know this is complete speculation on my part, but I find it hard to see how Bob's murder can be anything other than related to cricket. I believe the event must be stopped, and who knows, perhaps this will prove to be a watershed.
Let cricket remain what it is - a sporting event - not sullied by threats, bribery, violence, and other criminal acts.
The ICC should honour Bob's memory by cleaning up the game, as the Olympic movement is trying to do with doping
Complain about this postI couldn't have explained it any better than David Bradbury (post 72). Just a little extra point: this CWC will always be remembered for the murder of a great cricketer. But we can't let it shut down the game as a whole.
Complain about this postMy deepest sympathies and condolences to Mr Woolmer's wife, and his family and friends.
It is appalling to me that sport, the very name of which is used to indicate fairplay and honour, has become so dangerous for those involved and so rife with the most negative of human tendencies. That a coach whose team has had a bad game should be murdered as a result is beyond belief. This is as shocking as the murder of that Colombian who had the misfortune to score an own goal in the world cup was. But then in recent times we have seen referees assaulted, forced to retire, forced into hiding. We have seen massive levels of cheating through drugs and people going to prison because of this. We have seen athletes / sportspeople killed because they played badly. We have seen their effigies burned in the streets. We have seen bans because of corruption and gambling.
I love sport and I can't imagine there being a time when I won't but all of us real sports fans need to take our games back somehow. There does need to be professional authorities monitoring illegal behaviour. The police and governing bodies are needed (and the governing bodies of all sports need to be much more hardline in policing their individual sports) but we the fans need to take back control of sporting culture. It is unacceptable that spectators should feel it is their right to hurl UNBELIEVABLE abuse at players from the stands. It is unacceptable that fans should feel it's their right to threaten sportspeople or referees with death or any physical violence or indeed carry out such violence. It is unacceptable basically, that fans should feel that the natural emotional backdrop to a sporting event should be hate, greed or violent rage. If that is the way it is then it is inevitable that sport will attract criminality. We can all do our part to change this.
Complain about this posta sad sad loss
Complain about this postSport is a fantastic event on so many levels, it teaches the young so many good traits, winning and losing with dignity and pride in yourself and your team, teaches you more important lessons than years of studing.
However, when you involve money things start to cloud a beautiful event. The spirit of the sport is the important issue and the more Adam Gilchrist's we have (who has re-introduced walking) the better for the game.will be.
Do not cancel the event, sport should shine through as a light for the young in this dark world, leave no stone un-turned, find and sentence the guilty.
My sincere thoughts go to the Woolmer family.
Complain about this postGiven the fact that Bob Woolmer was murdered, I honestly don't see how the World Cup can continue. It was tragic enough when it looked like he had died of natural causes brought on by stress.
The murder now changes the whole concept of the event and, for me, the right thing to do would be to call off the whole thing NOW!
I witnessed a very tragic event on the cricket field last season, when my captain and friend died when playing in a match.
After this tragedy cricket I'm afraid takes very much a backseat.
Complain about this postIn utter shock. never expected that. I remember geting annoyed at all the
newspapers speculating about murder just because the original post mortum was
inconclusive.
I'm starting nets on sunday for my team. I'm not very good, but I like cricket, the competiton, the fun, the friendship, the exercise. There is no better team sport in the world. the depth, and also simplicity, of cricket is amazing. from 20 overs to 5 days. sometimes not even a result after 5 days. a great, complex, gentleman's game.
to die for something probably cricket related beggars belief!
Complain about this postThe murder of Bob Woolmer is the Murder of Cricket as a Sport. Bob who gave his loads of hard work to World Cricket and Pakistan, was one of the Best Player.
Come on you coward killers its just a game and you have coloured it with Bob's blood.
Complain about this postCricket is no more Gentle Man's Game its not Criminals Game. ICC stand up and do some thing before we loose more player
As so many others have voiced already, it is shocking that someone as popular and clean as Bob Woolmer has lost his life for a game.
Complain about this postAll these issues with security throughout the islands is frightening! I find it hard to believe that such crimes can be committed in such peaceful communities! I have travelled extensively over the last 20 years, and have been to a majority of the Caribbean islands. Through all of my travels there is no where I have felt more secure than in Antigua, where unfortunately, only the minor clashes are being held.
My best memories of Antigua would have to be when I visited Putters Bar & Grill in Dickenson Bay. The staff were very friendly & it helped with any homesickness me or my family were feeling, because a majority of the staff were English or Irish & we were able to converse about things which were occuring back here in the UK. They always made a point of showing any of the sports which were on the television & I spent many enjoyable days/nights with the friendly atmosphere there.
If anyone is going to Antigua for a holiday/to watch the cricket, I recommend that they visit Putters as I cannot think of a better place to view the matches other than in the stadium itself!!!
Complain about this postGentelman's Game??? Since when the meaning of this word has changed??
Complain about this postIf it hasnt, then please do not abuse the word and stop using it for Cricket.
I loved this game since I was 14 and Now I am at the stage where I must need to decide shall I continue to love this game or what??
First shock was Match Fixing scandle, and Now all important LIFE.
Nothing is important then LIFE and someone has strangaled LIFE.
Please for human sake, Cancel this World Cup, I agree that Show must go ON, but it can go on sometime in future. Today we need to send a strong message to Moneymaking machinory via Cricket, that When it comes to LIFE money can not buy it.
Late Wolley, Rest in peace.
Whole heartly condolence to his family member.
This is the most shocking news I have ever known in a major sporting event, I was not born when the Israeli athletes were murdered in 1972.
I was looking forward and hoping Bob Woolmer would become Englands new coach after the world cup as I thought he was the best coach in the world, sadly and tragically this will not happen now.
Complain about this postIf We have respect in Cricket, We should call off the this Tournment.
Complain about this postWhatever the reasons for Bob Woolmers death, there's nothing anyone outside of the police authorities who can do anything right now. If the cause of Woolmer's death turns out to be cricket related, then, and only then, can anyone currently involved in this World Cup begin assess the damage to the sport and begin to put it right.
One sure thing is that Bob Woolmer would want all cricket lovers to enjoy this world cup in spite of what's happened, and that is exactly what we should do as a mark of respect to Bob Woolmer.
Complain about this postBob Woolmer's murder is such a great tragedy and such a blow to all cricket not just the World Cup.Yes I agree with Donald the event should be called off.
Complain about this postMy sincere condolonces to Woolmer's Family
It is very painful, eyes are moist and now certainly do not have courage to follow the cricket at the moment. My country India, we have lost many cricket matches and other sport competitions in various situations but never ever I have been so impacted. I am not able to accept this and am feeling stifle. But this competition has to continue for the sake of thousands of West Indies people who have their life and earnings at stake. They have been dreaming and working hard for so many years. At the same time, through this event and after, we will never forget SIR Bob W and his contribution. I hope we all learn few lessons for this incident.
Complain about this postFirstly, our thoughts must go to Bob's family, friends and colleagues. We must not be quick to judge and we should no condemn the Pakistan players who must be under massive pressure.
I'm not sure that the World Cup should continue, but Bob would probably have wanted 'the show to go on'. But think of the pressure the players are now under. Will they be able to perform 100%? Maybe there should be a vote amongst the remaining teams with regard to continuing? It's a very delicate, difficult decision.
If this turns out to be about betting then governments should be involved and do something to clamp down on the syndicates who try to alter expected results and player performances.
It's a very sad day for cricket and those of us who love the game.
Complain about this postWhen I heard it had been confirmed that Bob Woolmer had been murdered I was shocked. I had heard all the rumours on the news bulletins during the day, but did not think that it would be true.
What is wrong with people? This was a game of cricket, nothing more. A game in a big competition for sure, but still a game of cricket. I feel the same when I hear about violence at football matches. What are these people all about?
The game is obviously immaterial to some people, whose only agenda is personal gain, either through financial gain, or through the rush they get from violence. This is always supposing that Bob's death was related to betting. I suppose it would be "better" if he had been murdered for some other reason, but we shall see.
As for the world cup continuing? I don't really care one way or another, as I always prefer Test cricket. It always seems funny that people say "they would have wanted the competion to go on" when something like this happens. Personally, I can think of no better tribute than for the World Cup to be called off. A Bob Woolmer Trophy should be awarded at future World Cups for a category to be decided, or maybe the TwentyTwenty trophy should be named after him, with money from the proceeds being used to set up coaching scemes, under his name, around the world.
I never knew Bob Woolmer, but did see him play in the days when cricket used to be on television. I will, however, remember wher I was when I heard the news of his untimely death.
Complain about this postI think that the police should find Woolmer's killer and that the players should keep on playing. It's too early to make speculations about match-fixing. We should not allow Woolmer's killers to succeed in ruining the Cup.
Complain about this postThe death of Woolmer has seriously jeapordised the sanctity of the game and the spirit in which it was played in pre-professional era.
Cricket should go back to amatuer status thus greed for money is out the game
Complain about this postBeing an Indian supporter, I'm torn between the big do-or-die match with Sri Lanka and the shadow Woolmer's death has created. It does seem shameful that the circus continues in spite of this tragic event, and it has indeed taken the gloss out of what could've been one of the best world cups because of the stunning locales and amazingly friendly and fun-loving people. If and when a more clear picture emerges about who committed this heinous act, I will reserve my judgement about what needs to be done.
Complain about this postAmongst all the media frenzy, let us all give a thought to Bob's family.
Complain about this postThis is as terrible event within the game that needs to be got to the bottom of and dealt with in the correct way. There is no need to stop the tournament as there will be time to greive away from the world cup. However i now sense a dark cloud hanging over the sport much like that of the italian football scandal. However I do not want the same outcome as the footbal in italy i do not want the scandal rumours tho be true, as then the sport would be ruined for years and tainted forever.
R.I.P
Complain about this postB.Woolmer
A positive suggestion... The football world cup trophy is named after a French administrator (Jules Rimet); the rugby world cup trophy is named after an English schoolboy (William Webb Ellis). Neither of them played those sports at the highest level. The cricket world cup trophy doesn't have a name, yet. Why not name it after Bob Woolmer?
Complain about this postI don`t wish to be a spoilsport in any way but this is a tragedy that will not just go away if they keep a stiff upper lip and continue to play the world cup games. it would be different if the perpetrators had been arrested but with the dreadful crime unsolved what about the security aspect.? I think they should bring a halt to the matches for the time being and concentrate on finding out who did this and why because if it is tied up with betting syndicates and organised crime for example then it doesn`t bode well for the rest of the tournament. Also Bobs family must be distraught and you can hardly dedicate the world cup to a muder victim can you ? as people have said it would be a lot different if Bob had died of a heart attack but to be murdered is a whole different ball game and i dont think the world cup can go on as though nothing has happened.
Complain about this postSigh......Sports in general has taken a turn for the worse.
Complain about this postI have no doubt that this was a backlash for a gambling deal gone sour.
Illegal Gambling/bribing in cricket, substance abuse in cycling, baseball, and a host of other sports, excessive endorsements and so many other reasons have taken away from the pure sporting talent.
Can sports survive and more importantly can true sports fans stick around and enjoy watching and hearing about this crap for too much longer?
I, for one, have started to keep track of global warming and temperature fluctuations in London, Bombay, Goa and Los Angeles.
Over and out.
Sunil
why are the West Indian police not collecting material for DNA testing instead of finger prints?
Complain about this postThis seems very much to me like an "inside job' and not just a random crime.
Complain about this postSad Sad Sad. This world cup was shaping up to be a good one,the death of Bob as cast a dark cloud over it now.I just hate to know this as happen in my country Jamaica. Let the game continue i think Bob would want it to.You will be missed Bob.
Complain about this postIt is sad to hear that Bob Woolmer was murdered.
Whether this has anything to do with match fixing, betting or not, I think the Indian Coach should also tighten up security around himself in case India go out in the first round.
In both cases the common denominator being both teams are from South Asia, and have interests vested to win.
Complain about this postHow can they coninue with the world cup now. All betting in cricket matches should be stopped. These people are destroying the game.
Complain about this postIt is unbelievable that Bob's death is now a murder case although sadly this was the outcome I suspected would occur.
In the light of all the hysteria and media hype I believe it is important to take stock and not make rash decisions. This is a murder case - that it occurred during a sporting world cup and after an unexpected loss may be relevant in terms of motive but does not mean that the tournament itself is responsible.
Security should always be of high priority at any large scale event. However, if Bob was murdered by a person or persons known to him, increased security would sadly not have helped him.
I believe that the tournament needs to go on for the sake of cricket and for the sake of a man who so loved and was loved by the sport. Just as normal life had to go on after 9/11 and the London bombings and other recent atrocities all over the world so the World Cup needs to stand up in the face of acts of cowardice.
Also as an Irish person it is sad that this happended so soon after Ireland's great victory. I hope Ireland can continue to impress as a tribute to Bob and his connection to the associate cricket nations.
Let cricket have the final say in this terrible tragedy.
Complain about this postIt's been said this World Cup should be cancelled. Personally I think they should continue with it & name the trophy played for this time & in every world cup to come The Bob Woolmer Trophy.
Complain about this postI've just read through all the posts about this tragic event. I think I'm going against the majority of people when i say that I feel the World Cup MUST go on with respect and in memory of Bob. It's what Bob would of wanted and to cancel the CWC now will just destroy the game. It would do more harm than good to cancel the tournament and unfortunately we can't change what happened.
It's important to put things into perspective. There are millions of genuine cricket lovers around the world so why let the horrific actions of a few individuals destroy the game we love. The barbaric people responsible for his murder are not real cricket fans or indeed fans of life and I pray that they are brought to justice.
Complain about this postits a great loss to cricket and the sporting world....Bob was a brilliant coach and a wonderful personality.
i think we must keep an open mind though in finding his killer(s). we mustn't point the finger without evidence
People are saying that it could have been a team member or even a supporter, whilst this could be true we must also consider anybody that had ill feeling with the pakistani team, as they may be trying to frame either the team or its supporters.
all we have at the moment is it must have been somebody Bob knew as there was no forced entry.
we will miss u Bob
Complain about this postWoolmer's death is shocking and appalling. The news that this was a murder is distressing to everyone.
I agree this World Cup will never be forgotten as the one where this murder happened. However let's please not get histerical and overreact like Allan Donald is doing. Allan's sentiments are towards a man he liked and worked with and are understandable but let's please divorce muder from the cricket and celebrate the game that Woolmer loved and lived for. It is difficult to think of little else at the moment but cricket has nothing to do with this death it is due to whoeever committed this crime, not the game itself. There is obviously a horrible association with the game we love but the game and this tournament must go on and we must commemorate a great cricket man through it.
Complain about this postI feel that the only way for the cricket world to honour the memory Bob Woolmer, his contribution to cricket world wide, and his love of the game is to call the trophy.
The Bob Woolmer Trophy.
Let the world cup continue to run its course, and the winners will recieve The Bob Woolmer Trophy,
Complain about this posthow better to remember a great ambassador of the sport.
When I watched the highlights last nite I was shocked to discover that Bob had been murdered. I think the world cup should continue but the winners should not be presented with the trophy in public and any celebrations must be low key.
Complain about this postdeath invariably leaves a profound sense of loss, but my goodness me, murder? and in a sport as cricket?whats next, golf?
Complain about this postmy commiserations to Bob's family and the rest of the "cricketing" fraternity.
well, this won't be the end, but maybe it marks the onset of the demise. something's really got to be done to rein in this book-keeping madness if its got anything to do with anything.
It will be remembered (the world cup) of Woolmers murder.
But stopping is what the murderers wanted.
Cricket will move on, it must
Complain about this postThe various comments from the ICB boil down to "terrible thing for the teams to have to play through, and if it were not for the millions that would have to be re-paid to the TV and sponsors it would have been called off."
Funny that, as in all probability it was the very same millions that caused it in the first place. Has cricket sold itself so far down the river that even after an incident like this money is the only thing that matters?
Do the sponsors really want to be associated with Bob's death, because that is all the CWC 2007 will now be remembered for.
Complain about this postWith the murder of Mr Woolmer it is time to cancel the Cricket World Cup. Until his killer or killers are brought to justice proceeding with this sporting event is a farce and an insult to his memory.
With suggestions of illegal gambling and match fixing the game of cricket is in a sorry state and the ruling body needs to clean up the game without delay
Complain about this postIt's sad that Woolmer has been murdered, but I can't imagine that Bob would have wanted everyone to stop playing cricket and go home. He's probably on a cloud somewhere with Johnners and Fiery Fred, tucking into a nice cake.
Complain about this postPeople are naive to think the betting incidents in cricket has ended with the death of Hansie Conje or indictment of Azaruddin.
Once this sprots used to be my favourite
Complain about this postAfter all the stupid squabbles between some opposing players, presided over by a supercilious judgemental sports media who delight in making harsh comments about players (who often are clearly excellent people) such as Shoiab Akhtar, we now have an event which might render some sort of perspective on the circus-like nature of cricket. The game has been sold out over time to egos, money, hype etc and has become much less than what its ideals demand. If the show is to go on, I would like to see every cricket player wear a black armband in memory of Bob Woolmer's murder for every game, and when a team wins I would like to see them not gloating at all, but accepting the victor's moment with quiet humility and grace. It's a shame that this is probably far too much to ask.
Complain about this postRegardless of the hopefully successful arrest of person/persons for this murder, there should be an offical health warning for any future coach of pakistan cricket and maybe India as well.
Complain about this postThere is a precedent for "The games must go on" after the murder of competitors - the 1974 Olympic Games in Munich were interrupted by the murder of 11 (I think) Israeli atheletes.
As was pointed out - the world cup moves away from Jamaica now (until the semi) so the police can get on with the investigation without the rest of the circus being on top of them.
And as for those posters who have pointed the finger of blame in the direction of Pakistan well consider this - it looks like someone he knew was involved because of no signs of struggle/forced entry. Now think how many places he had coached - SA, England, Pakistan, The Associate Nations as ICC High Performance Director. How many people involved in the West Indies now would have been known to Bob Woolmer? The answer is very many and they could be from ANY corner of the world.
Please everyone - wait til the police investigation concludes and THEN discuss it on the basis of fact. Aimless speculation is uselsss
Complain about this postI think that games should go on. Calling off the games is exactly what the perpetrator (s) would like. We are small nations that have invested millions in this games. Alot of low income persons have invested and to call of the games would mean their financial death....the Caribbean consist of poor nations. We deserve to reap some of the monies we spent. Besides calling off the games will be of little consolation to his family and friends.
The fact that there was no forced entry suggests he may have known the killer.
To the killer, you deserve a NICE, SLOW PAINFUL death...and your body parts tossed in a pit like the cockroach you are.
Look over your shoulders they are coming for you....scumbag
Complain about this postAt first, I thought the tournament should be cancelled, but after thinking about it, it should continue. As tragic as the circumstances are, the competition must go on.-
Complain about this postThis murder does cast a shadow over the world cup and I do hope the police will be able to solve this matter quickly. The games however should go on. This is not the first sporting event that something dastardly and tragic has happened. Olympics, Atlanta, bombing I need not say more.
Complain about this posthow can the ICC possibly say the cricket should continue after it has been confirmed that bob woolmer was murdered? i just watched an interview with malcolm speed and he appeared to cite the money which has been spent on grounds in the caribbean as a reason for the world cup continuing! so, i can only presume that money is what made the decision to carry on with the world cup? i think the whole situation is disgusting, a man has been killed seemingly because of cricket, how can they continue with the tournament under the shadow of murder and alleged match-fixing? the tournament has become a farce, and I agree with Paresh Soni that I'm not that interested in who wins.
Complain about this postRIP Bob.
Complain about this postFirst and foremost, everyone's thoughts are rightly going out to the family and those closest to him. This is a shocking tragedy, without question.
I understand why some might think the event should be cancelled, but I am inclined to disagree. This would not have any effect on those that committed the atrocity. It will undoubtedly overshadow the games, but far better to continue with the game he loved and devoted his life to, and simply dedicate the tournament to his memory.
Players will rightly celebrate a win, but this does not mean they have put this out of their minds. They will mourn too.
Complain about this postA further real tragedy might still be to come. If this murder is related in any way to the bookmakers, game fixers etc, then you would have to say it will undermine the very concept of cricket as a sport.
As it is this cricket world cup will be remembered not for sport.
Complain about this postPlease call this farce off! I was in tears after todays shocking news. Please show some respect to Bob, he was a wonderful character.
Complain about this post
Complain about this postWoolmer, Hansie Cronje, South Africa, Pakistan........??
the death of bob woolmer is the shock for the whole world. bob woolmer was the person who brought south-africa in the names of cricketing giants.the death was not a suicide or disappointment because her wife revealed that bob was not the emotional kind of person and he has seen worst cases before.
Complain about this postat last it will be the tournament which will be remembered till cricket is alive.
Comment 4 "Among the surreal elements surrounding Bob Woolmer's most tragic death was a comment that he had been instrumental in the victory of the Ireland team over Pakistan"
Complain about this post>>>>>This needs further explanation. Woolmer was briefly the ICC's high performance manager, which meant he worked with all the associate nations, like Kenya, Scotland, Netherlands. This was a pretty brief assignment for him about 3-4 years ago.
too much sponsorship money and corporate back slapping involved for them to cancel the tournament.
Will take at least another 2 deaths for them to even think about it.
Complain about this postTHIS WORLD CUP SHOULD BE STOPPED IMMEDIATELY.
THE SERIOUSNESS OF THIS MATTER MUST BE REGOGNISED BY THE WHOLE OF THE CRICKETING FRATERNITY.
ICC COMMENTS SUCH AS:
"The best way to do that is for the teams that remain in the tournament to play out a great ICC Cricket World Cup, something that will help put the smile back on the face of our great sport.
"By doing that we will demonstrate that cricket cannot be put off by a cowardly criminal act.
I FIND, LIKE MANY SUPPORTERS, DEEPLY INSULTING.
THE PRIMARY TASK OF THE ICC IN THE AFTERMATH OF THIS TRAGEDY IS TO COOPERATE AND ASSIST WITH THE INVESTIGATION INTO THE MURDER AT THEIR PREMIER INTERNATIONAL EVENT OF THE COACH OF ONE OF THE LEADING COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD.
THEIR PRIORITIES AND SUCH REACTIONS ARE WHOLLY INAPPROPRIATE - STOP THE COMPETITION NOW.
Complain about this postWhile obviously this casts a huge shadow over a major sporting event, I expect over the next few years more atrocities like this will spring up in 'sport'. Betting syndicates are getting larger, more upscale, and ultimately could ruin global sport as we know it.
Complain about this postAfter Bob's murder I think Indian Side is also facing the same sort of Fear specially India's star palyers and Coach Chapell...as they lost thier match against Bangladesh and facing a big challenge against Sri Lanka.
I know Cricket is big thing in ASIAN countries as we already read about Cricketer's homes being attacked by mob of some people.
My advice to Indians to be calm bacause at the end of the day its just a GAME of Cricket not the GAME of life.... and also to Jamaican and Indian Security serives to give extra security cover to Indian Squad.
Complain about this postWhy on earth is the tournament continuing? As you say nobody is going to remember who wins and who on earth wants to be known as the winners of a tournament that sunk to such levels of tawdriness?
Complain about this postIt is a real shock that a top coach like Bob Woolmer can be murdered during a world cup.
I personally feel that the cricket should continue and the fans should get behind their teams and lend their support. The West Indies have put on a wonderful tournament, taking many years of preparation and creating a feeeling of expectation and pride on each of the islands.
It is possible to show respect by a show of celebration.
The man loved his cricket - so what better way to show respect than playing world class cricket
Complain about this postI agree, i'm not at all concerned with who wins this tournament. It's a shame as everything was looking so positive in terms of action on the pitch with at least four or five potential winners.
I think the competition should continue as a tribute to Bob Woolmer.
Complain about this postRe-name the trophy the Bob Woolmer trophy, keep the tournament going as its what he would have wanted. Maybe South Africa, his old team, could pull something special off and win it for Bob, seeing as though Pakistan have already taken an early exit.
Complain about this postThe first Cricket World Cup in the West Indies will always be remembered,not for the game,but for the death of Bob Woolmer and how he died. MURDERED!
Complain about this postI'm not as pessimistic as some of the others. I think we'll go on to have a very riveting World Cup. I think journalists will be more affected having interviewed Woolmer etc, but I think for the average fan who really didn't know Woolmer much before this episode, it will probably be a seven-day wonder, unless some sensational stuff evolves about who was culpable. But I think we'll all get back to cricket very soon...like that juicy S/Lanka - India match going on rite now!
Complain about this postThis is without doubt the most bizarre sports story ever. I literally can't believe it. There are so many questions out there that need answering. I am sure that the Jamaican police are as confused about this as everyone else. I fear that this murder is just so unbelievable that the facts may take months to come out. The world cup should be postponed, no one can be happy about playing in it anymore.
RIP Bob Wolmer
Complain about this postIt sound like perfect Bollywood film script, I also hope like any Bollywodd script, it will have happy ending, where we caught culprits, put them behind bar for entire life to repent indefinitely, find out motives, clean this game once for all, no more incident like this, Bob's family get justice and above all may Bob's soul piece in the rest. BUT I know, for sure nothing of the above will happen apart from another casualty along the line.. Poor Bob!
Complain about this postMr Woolmer's murder is absolutely tragic but we should NEVER give in to any acts of terrorism or murder
AD
This quote is on your news website. Can you tell me what a murder has got to do with Terrorism or do you feel it necesary to associate anything with Pakistan and muslims to Terrorism??
This shall be highlighted to the right people.
Complain about this postI would like to make a suggestion that the World Cup is renamed the Bob Woolmer Cup. I believe everyone of us, in all countries united by the game, would support this opportunity to recognise this great man just like snooker did with Paul Hunter.
Complain about this postTo say that the death of Bob Woolmer is a tragedy would be true, but would be completely missing the point. It would be closer to the mark to call it an outrage and all decent people, crickets fans (as I am) or not, should be OUTRAGED.
I personally would like to see the World Cup cancelled. This would be a devastating blow to cricket financially but there is something inherently wrong in this wonderful game of ours if we don't take a stand now and take a long, hard look at how we have let it get this far.
We all have a romantic view of cricket which sadly no longer exists. We have to hope that like-minded lovers of the game can make a difference in the future.
Sadly that won't be in time for Bob Woolmer may he rest in peace but might bring some comfort to his family.
Complain about this postWell said Craig (no.137) The competition should continue as a tribute to Bob Woolmer. Having met the Guy in SA a few years ago, he would want nothing less.
I just hope the investigation is conducted quickly so that Bob can rest in peace here in South Africa and his family can have closure. All the media exposure is no doubt making it much tougher for his family.
Complain about this postThis simply is not cricket!! It is tragic for the Woolmers to whom I offer my deepest sympathies. The perpetrator(s) need to be brought to justice as quickly as possible.
Complain about this postAs a Jamaican citizen and a lover of Cricket i just have to agree with you (in part) that this is really a shock for the sport. How unfortunate that all of this had to happen in Jamaica but lets be frank here, if all of pakistans matches were held elsewhere ( say barbados foe eg)and the results where the same (scores that is), the outcome of his death would still remain the same. My reason for saying this is because obviously there are persons who are "die hearted" supporters of this sport and take it very serious. there are persons who wager big bets on results and when the results dont swing in their way then we know this means war. Take a look at some of the pictures that have been circulating in the media of pakistanis burning pictures of the cricket team because of their loss i mean these people are serious. U may be wondering where im going with this but all im saying is that Cricket is a sport, a lovely one indeed and for persons to be taking it so seriously is a dead shame (no pun inteneded). Many persons have saved up (like myself) over the years to afford to attend the matches and for this to happen really sinks my ships and makes me feel there is nothing more to look forward to. As i heard this morning on the news they have held someone ofr his death, but its not a Jamaican. This may sound mean but im glad it isnt a Jamaican. I think we have handle no more of the negative publicity that has come our way. Anyway this is just may opinion on the entire event.
Complain about this postI was shocked and deeply saddened to hear about Bob Woolmer's passing. And to now hear it was murder is all the more distressing.
In the past few years of wavering, let-downs and changes, Bob was the best thing to happen to Pakistani cricket... a ateadying hand.
I mourn his passing, and rage at his killers. May they be found swiftly. We need to honour a good man and remember his years of contribution to the game.
Complain about this postterrible news indeed...
Complain about this postWHERE WAS THE SECURITY AT AN EVENT OF THIS MAGNITUDE!
UTTERLY DISGUSTING
MY HEART GOEST OUT TO BOB'S FAMILY....
Complain about this postWhat a good article. this story is hugely disturbing for all people who participate and follow top level sports.
Complain about this postIt is alarming that the cause of Bob Woolmer's death was only determined by the second post mortem!!!
Frankly , I will endevour to watch the remaining matches - but in reality it has completely undermined, certainly in the short term, the beauty and fun of this wonderful game.
Our thoughts must be with Bob Woolmer's family - how do you possibly begin to deal with this one?
The Cup should continue, if only because this man gave so much to the game.
Extreme pressure should be put on the authorities to ensure that the perpertrators are swiftly and very publicly brought to justice.
Ever since I can remember, I've loved just about any sport. I've cheered on my team and sat dejected when we've lost, and elated when we've won. Whatever emotions I've felt, they've never included wishing harm to anyone.
If it is true that such an honest and committed man as Bob Woolmer has lost his life over a sporting fixture then we live in a far darker world than I thought.
Perhaps now when a coach has a bad run we won't witness the fans or the media calling for his or her head. I've coached sport myself and have enjoyed all the highs and lows. It's time that everyone realises that Sport is an entertainment, like going to the movies or having a meal with friends.
If we want to set up a lasting tribute to Mr. Woolmer, then let us all play the game, enjoy it and if we are not the ones that are ultimately successful in a competition, enjoy the joy of the winners, commiserate with the losers and congratulate everyone for taking part.
Until now I've always had a wry smile when I think of Bill Shankly's quote "Some people think football is a matter of life and death, but it's much more important than that."
No it isn't. And we all know that dear Bill had his tongue in his cheek when he said it.
So let's make this a World Cup to remember for all the right reasons and the same for all other sports. Maybe the quote we should carry with us from now on is "It matters not if you won or lost, but how you played the game."
May Bob rest in peace and may his legacy be that we view Sport as it should be viewed. As a wonderful expression of the human condition.
Complain about this postI hope the world cup will not experienced in future like what discovered now in gentlemen game.
Complain about this postWe all need all games earn spirit of sports.
Call it off
Complain about this postBob Woolmer's death was s great shock to my entire family. This was paritcularly so as Bob had an impeccable record when it came to principles and honesty. He was a beloved coach.
Great upsets happen in all games, which can be heart breakening, but we get over them and life goes on. But for somebody to be allegedly murdered as a result of the outcome of a game is inexcusable.
I hope and pray that the guilty person(s) is caught soon.
Complain about this postSeems like you feel strongly about this topic. Truly, we are all going through one of the darkest and saddest moments in the "sport world".
Bob Woolmer's death and Inzamam al-Hauq's retirement will surely have a long term effect on the performance of the Pakistani team, as they have been double hit morally.
With Pakistan's shocking crash and Bob Woolmer's death this World Cup will be marked down in history as one of the most dark and mysterious.
"An Australian journalist told me in the morning: "No-one will remember who lifts this World Cup. It will be the tournament at which Bob Woolmer died.""
Agreed.
Complain about this postWhat has happened to Mr.Woolmer is sad and
Complain about this postunfortunate, and I am sure no true cricket fan
living anywhere especially we in the West-Indies
like this situation seeing that we are
hosting the competition. It is apprent that the
closer one is to the Gentleman, The more this
will hurt. But to say that the World cup is no
longer signiciant is a bit harsh. Unfortunate events
has taken place in big international events like the
Olympics But has never stop the event from being
completed.Those it mean that everytime some
happens in international games it should be stopped
I think security for players coaches and others close to teams should be throughly exams before world
international sporting events take place. My condolences goes to his wife and family.
My dad was a lifelong cricket fan and I'm glad he's not here to witness this. A shocking, terrible event.
Bob, you deserve justice and I hope you get it. RIP my friend.
Complain about this postI am surprised to hear so much talk of canceling the WC.
Yes, Woolmer's death is a tragedy. That it was brought about by murder is an outrage.
To cancel the event, however, will mean that the 2007 World Cup will be solely about Bob Woolmer's murder.
By continuing the event, I think we will have the opportunity to pay more appropriate tribute to a man devoted to the game. Granted, the murder will cast a shadow over the event no matter what happens, but at least by continuing we may just be able to salvage something from this World Cup and the terrible crime committed.
History will never be able to mention the 2007 World Cup without some reference to the murder (like the Olympics in '72). Continuing the event will at least mean that there is also some cricket to talk about.
I don't think anyone who loves the game would want to see anything else.
Complain about this postIn reply to Steve FX:
Check.
Complain about this postI am not an expert on cricket. But I hope Woolmer's Murderer is found and brought to justice.
Complain about this postThis truely is one of the saddest moments in the game of cricket and this worldcup WILL forever be remembered as the one in which Bob Woolmer was murdered.
I favour the idea of comemorating Bob by naming the worldcup trophy after him. I think this will forever pay homage to contribution that Bob has made to the game.
Complain about this postBob's death has taken the pleasure out of the tournament for me. The inevitable media speculation which Paresh referred to needs to be cooled down by swift police action and regular press conferences. I dont want to say more because we dont know the full facts yet and I would urge others to take a similarly cautious approach.
Complain about this postPeople get murdered in all sorts of ways and places. Just because Woolmer was known in cricket should not effect the World Cup. Compassion to his family, and let's get on and enjoy the whole reason we are here.
Complain about this postHow can you not care who wins? I care no less now than i did a week ago. I mean of course its upsetting, but people are murdered every day..nobody would cancel the WC for them. And what about all the people who have got tickets for the tournament, and what about Ireland?...they wont get this chance again. You can't just let whoever murdered him stop the whole tournament.
Complain about this postIt is staggering to think that Bob Woolmer was murdered, and I am inclined to agree that the whole world cup will be remembered for those reasons alone. The last world cup will forever be remembered for the Zimbabwe issue, not the cricket played.
Complain about this postThe whole story is so shocking you still can;t believe it. The tournament should be cancelled in his memory. Why play on? It will be a hollow victory.
Complain about this postTo those asking where the security was I say this. IF it was someone known to Woolmer then they probably had passes/the right to be in that area of the hotel and security would not have stopped that. Security is only useful against outsiders.
IF it turns out that the killer was not connected to the tournament then and only then is it a failing of security. Expect it to be tightened a hell of a lot for the remainder of the tournament though.
Complain about this postIt is indeed, sad to hear, of anyone harming another, but can I as a human be to blame for another human beings lack of reasoning and common sense? I say no!! With all due respect and condolences to the Woolmer family and friends, NO ONE is bigger than this game. I do, care who wins, I do care what else happens in this tourament. The West Indian, people have put too much into this competition to let, this unfortunate event to overshadow it. We (all cricket fans), must fristly, think of the sport, and make this a better world cup than last one: and keep doing this for furture cups, always improviving. No withstanding again the magnitude of what happened, let's all now make sure that this is remembered as the best world cup ever.... as the next one HAS to be better than this.
Complain about this postGeorge Alleyne
BARBADOS
Of course it's sad, but like the budget, you're all taking it at face value. I would suggest a little more circumspection until such time as the FACTS are known. Bob Woolmer wasn't killed for money, his passport, or any personal belongings. Whatever the events, there is clearly more to the matter than is currently being reported and Sports Reporters should get the thing into context - isn't that what you are paid for? I'm not suggesting for one moment that BW was engaged in anything either illegal or underhand - he is probably an innocent victim - but we should at least reserve judgement until more information is released. In the meantime, the Cup should continue and funny old thing, I DO care who wins.....
Complain about this postAlthough I am Indian, my sympathies are with all of the Pakistan squad at this difficult moment. Bob Woolmer was one of the very best in this sport, and I'm sure I speak for the majority of cricket fans when I say that he will be sorely missed. The fact that he has been murdered is a big shock and I am filled with disgust at the person who has committed this unspeakable crime.
Complain about this postI really don't understand why so many people think the tournament should be cancelled. I don't get what people think this will achieve. This is a horrific event, as any murder is, but cancelling the tournament benefits noone. If the event was cancelled it would set a precedent for the future and then if anyone wanted a competition cancelled they could murder someone and it would be done. It's a ridiculous idea. Betting syndicates could put massive amounts of money on a team to win a tournament and then if that team gets knocked out before the final, they can bump off someone involved and get their bet back.
Complain about this postOne thing is for sure, Bob would not want the tournament cancelled!
If this were just about cricket, I would say cancel the World Cup and suspend all international cricket until this business has been cleared up once and for all. The fact that it will severely affect the economies of the West Indies and other countries must, however, also be taken into account.
Complain about this postI think that fixtures in the immediate future must go ahead, but nothing more must be added to the intinerary until someone finally gets to the bottom of this business. Match-fixing was bad enough, but a man (possibly two men if you also consider the still-unproven case of Hansie Cronje) has been murdered, and until the truth behind this has been discovered, international cricket, if not domestic cricket should be put on hold as soon as possible.
This world cup was looking as though it was going to be a cracker. Planty of runs, and whilst i'm watching England, its fair to say, hammer canada I get the sad Woolmer news.
I agree with Paresh, this world cup willo be called woolmers world cup and i think there should be a woolmer memorial cup for best coach.
But then this morning I look on BBC and find he was murdered. It has changed a cracking tournament into a sad one not only for pakistan, SA and England (His main job areas) but the entire cricket community and even people with no relevence to cricket.
It has sent carnival mood from 100 to about 5 in the west indies and is one of the saddest events in cricket history.
I agree with the ICC to continue so we can have the ICC cricket world cup 2007 remember in the name of England player, century scorer, SA coach and Pakistan Coach.
Complain about this postIf the Cricket World Cup continues, and I think it should, then why not rename the trophy "The Woolmer Cup" so that the man who died and the team that wins will both be remembered forever.
Complain about this postWhat a terrible shame that this should happen to a man whom no one had anything bad to say about. My heart goes out to his family. And how terrible for the Pakistan team, who clearly loved their coach. May they all find comfort too.
Complain about this postI met Bob once when I was a young lad up in Scotland -- he had come to play a charity game with some Kent colleagues, and remember his taking the time to meet with the public, sign autographs, and enjoy the world that would be his for the next several decades. He became one of my favorite players and I will miss seeing him as part of the wonderful game cricket is.
Let's finish this World Cup all the way to the final -- we all know that whoever wins it is going to dedicate the cup to Bob's memory.
That anyone would contemplate cancelling the tournament when 90% or more of the players have absolutely no conceivable connection to the terrible events involving Bob Woolmer is ludicrous.
If one of my workmates was murdered we wouldn't shut down the company. Woolmer's murder is yet to be shown to have had any connection to cricket, and it certainly has no connection to the majority of the teams pesent.
Cricket must do what the rest of us do in times of tragedy, and get on with the business of living.
Complain about this postFirstly, I must say that the murder of Bob Woolmer has horrified me; it was sad enough to hear that he had died but to learn that he was murdered is a dreadful shock.
Complain about this postThat said, I simply cannot understand why there are calls for the tournament to be abandoned. Did the music industry close down after John Lennon's murder? Did the BBC stop broadcasting when a journalist was killed in the Middle East? Was government abandoned after the assassination of JFK? Would we close down the NHS if we heard that an eminent doctor had been murdered by persons unknown and for no known motive? So why pick on cricket? Is it because some people think it's "only a game?"
It should be remembered that this particular branch of the entertainment industry is crucial to the well-being of the West Indian economy and that thousands of people have planned for years to earn benefits which are essential to the livelihoods of countless people.
It should also be pointed out that it is not incumbent upon decent people to stop going about their lawful pursuits every time an evildoer commits a crime.
The identity of Bob Woolmer's murderer is unknown. The motive for the murder is unknown. Whether or not his murder actually had anything to do with cricket is also unknown, despite all the speculation. These facts remain true whether or not two teams play cricket today, tomorrow or the day after. There is therefore no case for even thinking about cancelling a cricket tournament. It would achieve absolutely nothing and cause great hardship to many West Indians.
It is indeed only a game; and anybody who thinks its cancellation will make the world a better place is taking it too seriously. Similarly, those who think that, in the wake of this tragedy, the final result will be "devalued" must stand accused of having placed too high a value on it in the first place. But it is also a livelihood upon which many people depend and if they are unable to pay their bills as a result of an ill-considered decision to abandon a long-awaited opportunity to improve their prospects, who is going to bail them out?
yes it was a tragic incident
Complain about this postbut as always the case the life will go on.......
Tragic as it is calling of the World Cup would be a mistake.
Take the 1974 Olympics. Many athletes were murdered by terrororists and yet the games continued. That was the right decicion.
Complain about this post