KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, is optimistic that the return of Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matches to Jamaica will help strengthen the local cricket programme and rekindle interest in the sport among Jamaicans.

Speaking following the Jamaica Kingsmen’s 51-run victory over the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in their final home match of this year’s CPL campaign at Sabina Park in Kingston on August 18, Grange said the Government would continue to work closely with Jamaica’s new franchise holders and the CPL to strengthen the sport locally, with a particular focus on expanding opportunities for young cricketing talent to develop and thrive.

Grange also underscored the importance of expanding opportunities for women in cricket, noting that the establishment of a women’s league forms part of the sport’s renewed development focus.

“We’re going to do everything that is possible to… make sure we build back cricket here in Jamaica. We are starting with the very young, and we will build out some of the best cricketers, like we had in the good old days. Additionally, I always say cricket is a gentleman’s sport…[but the participation of] women is also [equally] important. So we’re on a mission and we’re going to achieve that,” she added.

Meanwhile, Grange said Jamaica’s strong showing at home was especially important, as it lifted the players’ confidence and gave supporters much to celebrate.

The team won two of its four games played at Sabina Park, including a victory over the Trinbago Knight Riders, while suffering defeats to the Barbados Royals and Guyana Amazon Warriors.

She acknowledged that while the losses were disappointing, the team’s victories in its final two home matches had given fans plenty to cheer about, pointing out that “the Jamaicans thoroughly enjoyed the games”.

Despite a loss to the St Lucia Kings in their sixth fixture on August 21, the Jamaica Kingsmen remain in contention for a playoff spot with several league matches still to be played.

“I’m ecstatic, I’m excited, I’m happy. I hope… everything [works out] well,” Grange said.

— JIS