High TV revenues to offset expenses for DLF Cup

The Indian board which is funding the Malaysia tri-series categorises it as an "off-shore project". "We have financed the tri-series 100 per cent," Niranjan Shah, the BCCI secretary, told reporters. "The floodlights are up [at the Kinrara Oval in Kuala Lumpur], the pitch is fine, just a couple of things are remaining."

In addition to footing a floodlight bill of nearly US$ 500,000 the BCCI would also provide the West Indies and Australia, the other two teams participating, with financial incentives. "We will also be paying appearance fee for West Indies and Australian teams of $1 million per match," Shah said.

Shah added that the high revenues to be acquired through television rights could be used to pay the two countries.

The tri-series has been sponsored by Delhi-based construction company DLF.