Prime Minister Patrick Manning, Chaguanas West MP Jack Warner and Sports Minister Gary Hunt yesterday congratulated the Trinidad and Tobago cricket team on their third consecutive victory at the Champions League T20 tournament in India.

In a release issued shortly after the victory, Manning said: ’I am overjoyed at the victory of these young men in this tournament. It is always heartening when citizens of our country go abroad and make us proud by doing their best. The spirit which they have shown is indicative of the passion and drive that exists in all of us, we must embrace it.’

Manning added: ’On behalf of the Government and the people of Trinidad and Tobago, we urge them to continue to play with heart and determination and we wish them every success as they continue towards victory.’

Warner, in a release, expressed his sincerest congratulations to the team on his behalf, on behalf of his Chaguanas West constituency and the rest of Trinidad and Tobago, on its latest triumph against the New South Wales Blues.

He said Kieron Pollard’s majestic 54 runs in 18 balls would stand tall as one of the fastest half centuries in this version of the game, ensuring the secured victory with finesse and style. Warner said Daren Ganga’s astute leadership also continues to impress.

’The performances to date have inspired cricketing legends Sunil Gavaskar and Greg Chappel to describe it as ’T&T’s dream run’. Trinidad and Tobago now share in this dream,’ Warner said.

’Some may have thought that your first round victory over Somerset and your ousting of the champions Deccan Chargers could not be bettered, but you have stepped up to the crease in grandiose splendour,’ he said.

Warner reminded them that they had already made their countrymen proud by their achievement thus far and that they had already won the hearts of cricket fan around the world, who remain in awe of the abundance of talent that resides in and originates from their twin islands.

’For this pride and glory, your country owes you a debt that is unfathomable. You have inspired the youth of the country as a whole. As you face your next challenge, we have no doubt that you would continue your winning streak and succeed to the semi-final round. Play for your team, the nation and the region. Your country and fans are cheering for you,’ Warner stated.

Hunt, also in a release, said, ’The players have demonstrated confidence in their approach to the game and their victories in these consecutive one-day matches are indeed a true demonstration of their abilities, both individually and collectively.’