New initiatives as Barbados prepares to host the CPL

Minister of Sport Charles Griffith is satisfied that preparations are on track for Barbados to successfully host its leg of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Kensington Oval will host from September 5, culminating with the final on Sunday, September 20.

The minister’s comments followed discussions at the Ministry of Sports and Community Empowerment headquarters at Sky Mall Haggatt Hall, with CPL Chief Executive Officer Pete Russell and the local organising committee.

Minister of Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment Charles Griffith. (Photo Credit: KH)

Griffith also welcomed several initiatives introduced by the CPL aimed at developing cricket at the grassroots level in Barbados.

Russell announced that a cancer team match will be held on September 10 in partnership with the Tridents Trust to raise awareness about breast and prostate cancer while Minister Griffith revealed plans for a cricket clinic for 100 children involving the Franklin Stephenson Academy, from September 7  to 10, targeting grassroots players.

CPL CEO Pete Russell. (Photo Credit: Guyana Chronicle)

Russell said a batting simulator will also be available at various locations across Barbados, including high-traffic areas such as Independence Square and Freedom Park in Bridgetown, allowing fans to participate in virtual cricket activities.

Additionally, a health and wellness programme will be rolled out throughout the region in partnership with Ministries of Health and non-governmental organisations. The initiative will provide testing for blood pressure, cholesterol, breast cancer and prostate cancer at venues.

Russell said the CPL met with Kensington Oval Management Incorporated, adding that “the idea is that prevention is better than cure.” Fans were also assured that the testing will be free once they have purchased a CPL ticket.

The CPL chief executive also revealed that a Hall of Fame Dinner will be held on September 15 at the Hilton Hotel to honour outstanding players from around the region. Two inductees will be recognised this year, along with a special award for National Hero Sir Garfield Sobers.

Plans are also being developed to take players into schools for various engagement activities. 

(PT/KH)