Bajans roll out red carpet for CPL’s return to Kensington Oval

By Rawle Toney

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) made its return to Kensington Oval for the first time since 2019, igniting the enthusiasm of cricket aficionados in Barbados who were eagerly anticipating the biggest party in sport at the historic venue.

Amidst a barrage of sixes on the field as the Barbados Royals and Trinbago Knight Riders got down to business on Wednesday night, exuberant fans created a party ambience in the stands. 

The resonating sounds of Bajan soca reverberated through the loudspeakers during each boundary, wicket, or momentary pause in the match.

As spectators streamed into the venue earlier, there was a shared sentiment – that the CPL’s return to The Mecca was long overdue.

And once they were inside, the Bajan culture took over in the arena. 

The trident, indigenous culinary delights, freshest tunes from this year’s Crop Over, and, naturally, Crop Over costumes highlighted the vibrant cultural spirit.

Observing from the sidelines was Shaquar Shepherd, the lanky pace bowler from Wanderers Cricket Club. He expressed his immense delight at being able to witness some of his most admired players in the sport performing live. 

Radiating an abundant sense of optimism, the 19-year-old eagerly anticipated his CPL debut in two years’ time, telling Barbados TODAY, “Mark my words…. I’ll be right out there.”

Alongside Shepherd, numerous budding cricketers were at the venue, thanks to the efforts of youth leader Taahir Bulbulia who said the event is being used to inspire the next generation of talent on the Island.

Meanwhile, in the concession area, vendors were all smiles at the chance to show off their culinary skills to cricket fans and to make some extra revenue. 

rawletoney@barbadostoday.bb