BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – St Kitts and Nevis has been awarded all six neutral games in the Caribbean Premier League, organisers have announced.This comes on the heels of the announcement earlier this week that the country would be also given a franchise for the upcoming Twenty20 league.
The latest move comes as a result of a deal struck between CPL and the St Kitts government, and Sports Minister Glenn Philip said he was thrilled with the development.
“CPL delivers huge benefits to the Federation with US$26 million injected into the economy during last year’s hosting of CPL, and 65 million fans from around the world tuning in to enjoy the exciting matches. There is no doubt that the people of St. Kitts and Nevis were treated to a fantastic week of entertainment both on and off the pitch,” he said.
“As such, we see the hosting of the neutral games, alongside having our new team, as a massive opportunity for St. Kitts and Nevis, and we are delighted to be welcoming all of the CPL teams to the Warner Park Stadium once again.”
St Kitts’ Warner Park stadium served as a venue for the first time last year, after missing out in the inaugural year of the CPL in 2013. It was surprisingly handed a number of matches, including the semi-finals and the final.
CPL chief executive Damien O’Donohoe said St Kitts’ massive success as a venue last season had gone towards the latest decision.
“The hospitality shown there has been nothing short of sensational and the St. Kitts and Nevis Government have again shown great commitment and faith in the tournament by agreeing to host the neutral games at Warner Park Stadium this year,” he said.
“Their commitment reinforces our drive to make CPL one of the most successful cricket tournaments in the world. The staff of Warner Park Stadium did an impeccable job in taking care of the grounds last year, ensuring that exceptional cricket was on display – further cementing its position as a premier location to host not only CPL games, but international matches as well.”
No dates have been announced for the CPL this year but the draft is set for this Thursday.