Sammy debuts on home soil

There's wild anticipation and euphoria across St Lucia today as the island's cricket superstar - Darren Sammy - prepares to play his first international match on home soil.

Many St Lucians are hoping that Sammy could lead the West Indies to victory in its third One-day International against Sri Lanka at the Beasejour Stadium.

Stopping just short of announcing a public holiday, the government granted a half-day to all civil servants to allow them to attend the match.

Sports Minister, Lenard Montoute acknowledged that it was a big day for islanders, who will witness Sammy play alongside the West Indies for the first time since his selection to the team in 2004.