Hong Kong, September 28: Fans can look forward to extended excitement in the showpiece Cup and Plate competition finals at this year's Cathay Pacific/Standard Chartered Hong Kong International Cricket Sixes.

In a move designed to further enhance the reputation of the Kowloon Cricket Club extravaganza as the world's premier Sixes event, organisers have confirmed that eight-ball overs will be used for the first time.

Mike Walsh, chairman of the Hong Kong Cricket Association (HKCA), said: "As the climax of the tournament, the two finals are the highlight of the weekend.

"As such we think it is entirely appropriate that we provide the players with a suitable platform to showcase their expansive skills. We also believe that the eight-ball overs in the finals will increase the drama and appeal for spectators at the ground and television viewers around the world."

In each of the previous editions of the Cathay Pacific/Standard Chartered Hong Kong International Cricket Sixes all matches have consisted of a maximum of five six-ball overs with all players, apart from the wicket-keeper, bowling one over.

Instead of being contested over 30 balls per side, each of the four finalists on November 7 will bowl and receive 40 balls.

Said Walsh: "With an additional 10 balls per side, I think you'll see considerably more strategy coming into play. The object in any sporting contest is to identify the best teams. In theory, this change should benefit the best team as they will have more time to assert their authority."

The rules amendment will only apply to the finals. All pool matches, as well as the semi-finals and third-place play-offs, will continue to consist of a maximum of five six-ball overs.

Defending champions England will spearhead the eight-nation line-up this year. They will be joined by teams representing Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Kenya and South Africa. The eighth and final team are yet to be confirmed.

‘Early bird' two-day tickets for the 2004 Cathay Pacific/Standard Chartered Hong Kong International Cricket Sixes are currently available. Prices have been set at HK$350 for adults and HK$200 for children under the age of 15. From October 16, the price will increase to HK$450 for adults.

The eight competing teams are split into two groups of four and will play each other on a round-robin basis on day one.

The top two teams in each pool will progress to the Cup competition knockout stages, while the bottom two teams in each of the pools will compete for the Plate