Jamaica’s return to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) will be fueled by a substantial $3.25 million annual investment and the waiving of critical hosting fees, as announced by Sport Minister Olivia Grange. The disclosure came during a parliamentary committee review of the forthcoming national budget.
The financial commitment breaks down into two core streams: a dedicated $2.75 million to operate a professional men’s team and a further $500,000 to establish and operate a new professional women’s CPL franchise. This investment revives a Jamaican presence in the tournament after a multi-year absence.
In a significant gesture, CPL organizers will waive all hosting fees for Jamaica’s four scheduled home games at the iconic Sabina Park in Kingston this season. Minister Grange clarified that this concession is a direct response to the economic impact of Hurricane Melissa on the nation. Consequently, the Jamaican government’s contribution will be primarily ‘in kind’ rather than monetary.
The return of CPL cricket to Sabina Park marks the first such event since 2019. Beyond immediate tournament operations, the initiative includes a long-term commitment to grassroots development. Minister Grange emphasized planned youth programs and future infrastructure investments designed to position Jamaica as an elite T20 cricket hub and strengthen its standing in the sports tourism sector.
A strategic partnership with the Ministry of Tourism is also underway to promote Jamaica as a premier sports tourism destination. The new franchise ownership, reportedly secured by US-based businessman Fawad Sarwar through his FKS Group and Kingsmen Sports enterprise, is expected to be formally announced in the coming weeks. Sarwar’s group prevailed over multiple interested parties to acquire the franchise, which became inactive in 2023 after its previous owner relocated to Antigua.