It promises to be a great breeding ground for aspiring cricketers

Joel Garner

Garner tormented England for many years

"It promises to be a great breeding ground for aspiring cricketers whilst providing some top-class entertainment."

Garner is joined in backing the 24-team competition by Phil Simmons, the West Indian all-rounder who enjoyed several successful seasons with Leicestershire, and onetime England all-rounder Chris Lewis.

And cricketers are not the only well-known names involved.

Shoring up the Luton Caribbean batting line-up is Mark Stein, the former Chelsea and Luton striker.

"It is great for me to support a national cricket competition which encourages players from all backgrounds to play the game," said Simmons.

Lewis plays for the Nottingham-based West Indian Cavaliers, although he does not play in the Trophy.

"Having grown up in Harlesden and followed West Indian heritage teams ever since it is great to be involved in such a competition now," said Lewis.

"It is a great tournament which helps raise the profile of Caribbean cricket.

"The West Indian Cavaliers team helps reach out into the local community and there is a great atmosphere at matches.

Cavalier: Chris Lewis

"We have several promising youngsters coming through the ranks - our 16-year-old wicketkeeper has just signed a summer contract with Nottinghamshire."

The teams are divided into eight groups for a round-robin stage, before the top two advance to the knock-out stage.

Teams from Sheffield, Huddersfield, Birmingham and Wycombe are taking part, along with a number from London.

The final will be held at Dagenham on 2 September.