Kerry Ann Bryan, brand manager at Wray & Nephew, enthusiastically endorsed her company’s partnership with the Social Development Commission (SDC) National Community T20 Cricket Competition as a perfect match, citing the shared values of community development, sportsmanship, and Jamaican pride.

Bryan said that SDC National Community T20 Cricket has played a crucial role in connecting different communities across Jamaica. She highlighted the efforts to engage with diverse groups and introduce them to cricket, fostering a sense of inclusivity and expanding the sport’s reach.

“Our four-year sponsorship underscores our unwavering belief in the transformative power of community development, sports, and camaraderie,” Bryan told the Jamaica Observer.

“This partnership between Wray & Nephew and SDC Cricket is a perfect match, fostering community involvement and development. We invite everyone to join in and experience the spirit of cricket, from the players and coaches to the communities coming together in a shared celebration of sport and culture,” she added.

Bryan fondly shared her own connection to cricket, describing how she was introduced to the sport by her grandfather and its strong cultural significance in Jamaica. She viewed the SDC National Community T20 Cricket Competition as a way to pass on this passion and heritage to new generations.

“Cricket is deeply ingrained in Jamaican culture,” Bryan said. “I cherish memories of watching cricket with my grandfather and my uncle on Sunday mornings and so that was really nostalgic for me. So cricket is just part of Jamaican culture likewise Wray & Nephew.”

“We just believe coming onboard we help foster and build communities; we help foster and build the sport in Jamaica likewise the different communities that are involved sport, different teams representing here are from all different parts of the island. If it weren’t for cricket, these communities might never have connected. So that is why we decided to come on board,” Bryan added.

At the grand finale at Chedwin Park, St Catherine, on Sunday, August 25, 2024, Fairfield United defeated Links United by 30 runs to retain their title.

Batting first, Fairfield made 147 all out from 19.3 overs. Zidane Gordon top-scored with 25 runs for Fairfield against Tevin Gilzene’s impressive five-wicket haul for 19 runs from four overs.

In reply, Links United struggled to maintain their early momentum when they were well-placed at 58-3 in five overs and were bowled out for 117 runs. Richard Thomas was the standout bowler for Fairfield United, taking four wickets for 17 runs from his four overs.

Bryan praised the event’s success, despite initial overcast weather.

“It’s heartwarming to see players and teams coming together, cheering each other on. The excitement and energy are palpable, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it,” she said.

“Looking ahead, we’re definitely looking to explore further opportunities to support and uplift sports development in Jamaica. This may include initiatives such as training programme, facility refurbishments, and other projects that will enhance the overall sporting experience. So there are many things we are looking to the future for SDC Cricket and Wray & Nephew,” she said.

Othneil Pennant, captain of Links United, expressed his gratitude for corporate Jamaica’s support of sports, saying: “It’s a welcome gesture when corporate entities give back to the sports community, especially since we as consumers have been loyal to their businesses. Sports is not only a passion but also a significant career path and industry, and sponsors play a vital role in its development.”

Pennant highlighted the importance of sponsorship in nurturing young talent, citing examples of successful cricketers like Rovman Powell who got their start in the competition.

“There are a lot of schoolboys out here putting their talents on display in this competition and so we need the help to foster their development. This platform has been a launching pad for many talented players like Rovman Powell and others who have gone on to represent the West Indies. We need more initiatives like this, and I hope to see continued support from Wray & Nephew and other sponsors in the future,” Pennant said.