Carl Hooper, who captained the Windies in the 2003 World Cup, remembers the effect Richards had on the opposition.

BBC: Cricket gives the West Indies its identity.

"Anybody who watched the World Cup and saw the effect it had on the country can't convince me that (granting Kalou citizenship) would not have been in the national interest, " Cruyff said.

BBC: SPORT | Football | African | Cruyff regrets Kalou absence

"What happened at the World Cup won't have any effect, " he said.

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"The positive effect of hosting the World Cup will be felt right through England, " he said.

BBC: 2018 bid chief calls for humility

His move to England, which is expected to take effect after the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand during the autumn, will further test Wales coach Warren Gatland's desire to have his players based in Wales.

BBC: Wales prop Craig Mitchell to join Ospreys' exodus

With Cole sidelined by an ankle injury, Terry and Bridge are expected to be named in the squad to face the African champions when it is announced at the weekend and Capello believes there will be no negative effect on his preparations for the World Cup finals in South Africa.

BBC: Fabio Capello warns England squad over conduct

In 2005 Beckham played a part in helping London win the right to stage the 2012 Olympics and the FA is hoping he can have a similarly galvanising effect in persuading Fifa to allow England to stage the World Cup for the first time since 1966.

BBC: Beckham hands over England 2018 World Cup bid

"SLC wishes to announce that in view of a directive issued by the ICC to the effect that no games should be played at any of the World Cup venues, SLC is compelled to make the above changes, " the board said in a statement.

BBC: Cricket World Cup: ICC admits Sri Lanka venues delay