Now actor Gerard Butler buys into CPL T20 franchise

Kingston, Aug 20 (IANS/CMC) Another Hollywood actor, Gerard Butler, has taken an equity interest in a Caribbean Premier T20 League (CPL) franchise, Jamaica Tallawahs, as the tournament heads for a climax this weekend.

Butler, who stars in a number of top movies such as "Law Abiding Citizen" and "The Ugly Truth", is also planning to be in Trinidad Friday to support the Tallawahs when they play Barbados Tridents in the second semi-final.

"It is obvious that this tournament is the home of the greatest party in sport so I wanted to get in on the fun," said Butler Monday.

"Having said that, as a Scotsman I definitely have an appreciation for cricket and I also recognise that the CPL is a great combination of sports and entertainment. I'm excited about joining the Jamaica Tallawahs franchise, and hopefully being a part of the team that wins the inaugural tournament."

Tallawahs squeezed out a last-ball three-wicket win over Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel in the final preliminary game at Sabina Park Sunday night.

They ended the league with 10 points, equal with top ranked Guyana Amazon Warriors who had a better net run rate.

"We are thrilled that Gerard has seen the enormous potential of the CPL and has taken an equity interest in the Jamaica Tallawahs," said CPL Chief Executive Officer Damien O'Donohoe.

"I think more people are realising its global appeal, and how it is an experience like no other."

Last month organisers announced that Hollywood actor Mark Wahlberg, known for his starring roles in films such as "Boogie Nights" and "Planet of the Apes", had taken an equity interest in the Barbados Tridents team.

Butler's next movie, "How To Train Your Dragon 2", comes out in 2014.

The inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League began July 30 in Barbados, and concludes Saturday in Trinidad.

--IANS/CMC

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