JCA CEO expects even contest between bat and ball at Sabina
While plenty of the focus has been on the readiness of the lights and the digital scoreboard at Sabina Park to host the third Test, Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) CEO Courtney Francis says other improvements at the venue should make for a fulfilling experience for those in attendance.
West Indies, trailing Australia 0-2 in the three-Test series after losses in Barbados and Grenada, are hoping for a consolation result when they take on the visitors in a day/night contest in Jamaica, starting Saturday afternoon.
Earlier this week, they received the approval from the International Cricket Council (ICC) that Sabina Park was fit to host the match after recent infrastructure upgrades.
“The JCA and its partners have worked tirelessly to execute upgrades that ensure Sabina Park’s capability to host world-class day and night international fixtures,” Francis told the Jamaica Observer during a visit to Sabina Park on Thursday.
“The outfield is green and in excellent condition. The pitch is well-grassed and we expect it to be true-paced and even for batsmen and bowlers,” Francis said against the backdrop of bowler-friendly conditions during the previous two Tests.
He said the newly installed high-definition LED scoreboard and replay screen — a gift from the Government of India — is expected to “enhance live replays, scoring, and fan engagement”.
The JCA chief executive said an inspection team assigned by the ICC and Cricket West Indies all light “towers [are] successfully aimed and calibrated as of July 8, 2025” and that the lighting “system is engineered to meet ICC standards for both horizontal and vertical luminance”.
He said dressing rooms for players and officials have been fully refurbished “to align with ICC requirements and global best practices”.
Francis added: “The facilities are ready for players, staff, match officials, media practitioners and fans.”
— Sanjay Myers