Lynch: Kensington Oval 95% cent ready for ICC Cricket World Cup

The iconic Kensington Oval is 95 per cent ready for the hosting of the 2024 ICC Cricket World Cup.

Chairman of the National Organising Committee Noel Lynch confirmed this during a media tour of the grounds on Saturday.

Kensington Oval will host nine matches which bowls off on June 2, including the finals on June 29.

“Kensington Oval has never looked as good as it does right now,” Lynch said. 

“The field, in particular, is in its best condition ever, and those who have played on it are nodding in agreement.”

He praised the dedication and hard work of the curators and groundsmen, emphasising that although some finishing touches are still being applied, the Oval is ready to host cricket matches. “We are not boasting, but we are ready,” Lynch stated.

Saturday’s tour was also to highlight the infrastructural improvements to the Oval.

Work done includes upgrades to the bathroom facilities, the inclusion of a three-tier hospitality suite, upgrades to the media centre and the erection of a temporary stand capable of seating 2,500 people.

Lynch also highlighted the efforts to engage the local community through the KOMI Good Neighbor Programme. “This isn’t just about the World Cup; it’s about an ongoing, sustainable programme,” Lynch said. 

The programme focuses on involving residents from nearby areas, providing them with job opportunities related to the Oval’s upkeep. 

“We have walked every avenue in Pickwick Gap, gone house to house with the member of parliament, and engaged with the community directly.”

He also outlined the progress and near completion of the preparations, mentioning the road paving in front of the Oval as one of the final tasks. “We’re 95 per cent to 99 per cent ready,” he confirmed.

Ahead of the start of the World Cup, on Wednesday, there will be an open house for members of the public. The gates will be open at 1 p.m. and Barbadians and visitors are invited to come and see what has been done.