Kensington on track

by Rawle Toney

Following a tour of Kensington Oval on Thursday, the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Venue Inspection team has expressed satisfaction with it’s condition.

However, they noted the need for additional work to be completed at the ‘Mecca’ ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup.

“Kensington is on track,” stated ICC’s Senior Operations Manager, Tusla Woodham, during a media briefing on Thursday.

The cricket spectacle, scheduled for June 4 – 30, will be hosted in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Lucia, along with venues in New York, Dallas, and Florida.

Woodham disclosed that there had been a comprehensive review of various aspects of the venue to ensure it met all the requirements for players, match officials, media, hospitality, the ground, and training facilities.

“We’re here to deliver an exceptional, safe, and secure global event,” he added.

KJ Singh, who worked with the ICC during the 2010 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean, revealed that this was their second visit to Kensington Oval, following their first inspection in April.

Singh highlighted the cross-checking of completed tasks and the need for a timeline from the Government of Barbados and the Barbados Cricket Association for the remedial work to be completed.

Singh said an inspection of the practic facilities had been completed on Tuesday and “everything seemed to be in place”.

He acknowledged Barbados’ commitment to having Kensington Oval ready in time for next year’s World Cup, evidenced by the recent US$25 million loan from the African Export- Import Bank to upgrade the facility.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley signed the deal on the final day of last month’s AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF23) in Guyana on behalf of Kensington Oval Management Inc. (KOMI).

Singh pointed to the importance of meeting international standards for television spectators and listed Spidecam installation and digital advertising boards as minimum requirements.

He expressed confidence in the region’s ability to deliver an entertaining ICC event, making the 2024 World Cup memorable for both the host countries, particularly in the Caribbean and the ICC.

The inspection team will visit the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Saturday, followed by the Guyana National Stadium.

rawletoney@barbadostoday.bb