The postal authority yesterday released a series of stamps celebrating Cricket World Cup..

Other countries that are a part of the Universal Postal Union, a branch of the United Nations, also released a commemorative series of stamps. In addition, this omnibus stamp series will be launched in each host nation of Cricket World Cup.

In Jamaica, the stamps feature two of Jamaica's well-known cricketers - Ambassador Courtney Walsh and 'Collie' Smith - as well as the newly-built Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium in Trelawny; and Jamaica's world- famous cricket venue, Sabina Park in Kingston. Additionally, there is a sheetlet with flags from all participating West Indian nations.

The Cricket World Cup is one of the world's largest and most prestigious sporting events, and takes place every four years under the auspices of the International Cricket Council (ICC), the governing body for international Test and one-day international matches.

Total membership

The ICC was founded by Australia, England and South Africa on June 15, 1909; subsequently, other countries joined bringing the total membership to 97. The first World Cup was held in England in 1975 and was won by the West Indies under the captaincy of Clive Lloyd.