ST JOHN’S, Antigua – President of Cricket West Indies (CWI), Dr Kishore Shallow and Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, met recently to discuss a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening cricket in Jamaica and contributing to the growth of cricket in the region.
The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration between CWI, the Government of Jamaica, and the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), with particular emphasis on grassroots development, coaching education, pitch preparation, international hosting opportunities, and the long-term growth of the game across the island.
Grange underscored the importance of a united approach to rebuilding West Indies cricket, noting that governments, territorial boards, and CWI all have a critical role to play.
She also highlighted the need to invest in youth development by introducing more children to the game from an early age and creating stronger pathways for talent identification and progression.
Among the key areas discussed were strengthening partnerships to support schools’ cricket programmes, coach development initiatives, and improved pitch preparation standards throughout Jamaica.
The meeting also explored opportunities surrounding cricket’s inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and the potential for Jamaican participation on that historic stage.
The parties further discussed efforts to facilitate the return of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) to Jamaica and reaffirmed a shared commitment to ensuring that Sabina Park remains a desirable host venue for international cricket, including bilateral series featuring the West Indies.
Dr Shallow welcomed the discussions, emphasising the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders.
“Cricket has always been a powerful unifying force throughout the Caribbean, and the evolution of West Indies cricket to adapt to the ongoing developments in world cricket requires strong partnerships at every level.
“I am encouraged by the commitment demonstrated by Minister Grange and the Government of Jamaica to the development of the game. Together, we can strengthen grassroots programmes, improve our cricketing infrastructure, create greater opportunities for our young people, and ensure that Jamaica continues to play a leading role in the future of West Indies cricket,” Shallow said.
“We are particularly excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, from international hosting opportunities to cricket’s return to the Olympic stage in Los Angeles in 2028.”
The meeting forms part of CWI’s ongoing engagement with regional governments and stakeholders as the organisation continues its efforts to strengthen the game’s foundations and position West Indies cricket for long-term success.
Shallow will also lead a delegation to engage the CARICOM Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Cricket, chaired by the president of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, His Excellency Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on Wednesday.
CMC
