Buy ICC World Twenty20 2009 tickets

Fans can see the likes of Kevin Pietersen in action at next summer's event

Cricket fans are being urged to book their tickets for next summer's ICC World Twenty20 which is being held in England.

Tickets for the tournament have been in huge demand since lines opened at 10am this morning.

There were thousands of fans in the queue for tickets for the event to be held at Lord’s, The Oval, Trent Bridge and Taunton in June next summer.

"We have seen an unprecedented interest in the tickets for the ICC World Twenty20 2009," said Tournament director Steve Elworthy.

"When ticket lines opened this morning there were literally thousands in the queue waiting to register to purchase tickets for the event in June next year.

"I am told by Ticketmaster, who are handling the tickets, that the demand has been the equivalent of that for a Robbie Williams or Madonna concert. It is that huge so we apologise to those who couldn’t get through or who have been waiting in the queue for some time.

"I urge anyone who hasn’t already purchased their tickets to get in early to avoid disappointment because at this rate it appears the tickets will be sold out in the next few days."

Ticket prices have been tailored to ensure as many people as possible can afford to watch the 17-day, 27-match, 12-team event that also includes an eight-team women’s tournament, with 15 matches in 11 days, running alongside it.

A key feature of the 2009 event is that 20 of the match-days will include two games showcasing four international teams. This double-header format allows spectators to view two games for the price of one match-day ticket.

Tickets can be purchased in one of two ways. Fans can log on to the tournament’s official website, accessed via the ICC website, www.icc-cricket.com.

Alternatively UK-based fans can call 0844 847 2020 (cost 5p per minute from British Telecom landlines; cost from other networks and mobiles may vary).

Tickets for fans from overseas can be purchased via the website. The maximum number of tickets that can be purchased for each matchday is four, although there is no limit on purchases for women’s group matches at Taunton.

England have been drawn against Pakistan and one of the Associate members who must qualify in August.