Under the new system, fans across the region can call a toll-free number to order tickets for all Tests and One-Day Internationals.

Orders can be made using international credit cards through The West Indies Ticket Line. The number is 1-800-744-GAME (4263).

Details of the new system were disclosed by West Indies Cricket Board chief marketing executive Chris Dehring.

Dehring said the system, installed by Synchro Systems UK, would allow boards to serve the public better, improve customer service and convenience, expand marketing and revenue opportunities and prepare the region for hosting a World Cup. Traditional cash purchases will continue at the ticket offices but Dehring said the new system was introduced as part of WICBŐs overall strategy to modernise the marketing of cricket.

Dehring gave the assurance that there could be no duplication of sales between the WICB ticket centre and a local board office since all ticket offices would sell from one On-Line system.

The WICB has also introduced a two-tiered pricing structure that will allow Caricom residents more affordable admission to matches in the England series. (see accompanying table).

Precautions have also been put in place to prevent overseas tour operators from buying the majority tickets.

Barbados Cricket Association president Tony Marshall said 65 per cent of Kensington OvalŐs capacity had been reserved for Caricom residents.

Marshall said the BCA was trying to ensure locals would be accommodated and depending on sales, the ratio may have to be ``redefined''.

The official capacity of Kensington Oval was given at 10 000, and Marshall said renovations to the Mitchie Hewitt Stand at the southern end of the ground would pave the way for an additional 1250 spectators.

The BCA is appealing to the public not to buy tickets for resale. Tickets have a stipulation printed on the back that they are not to be sold for more than the face value, neither are they to be resold.

The new system goes into operation in Barbados from December 9, while the Antigua office starts the following day, Jamaica from December 15, Trinidad and Tobago December 18 and Guyana and St. Vincent January 12.