The Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) celebrated the culmination of its 2025 season with a prestigious awards ceremony at the Hilton Barbados Resort this past Saturday. The event recognized exceptional talent across all divisions while delivering a powerful message on the importance of athletic integrity.
Keila Elliot and Marradon Bend received the highest individual accolades as Most Outstanding Cricketers for their remarkable performances throughout the season. Bend, representing Spartan Cricket Club, dominated the First Division as the season’s top scorer with 698 runs, leading his team back to the Elite Division after their 2024 relegation. Elliot earned the women’s award through her demonstrated commitment and consistent progress, showcased during both the domestic Iris Walker tournament and regional competitions with the Barbados Women’s team.
The ceremony also honored emerging talent with Eboni Brathwaite and Deswin Currency receiving Most Improved Cricketer awards, while Zannaiyah Bruce and Joshua Dorne were recognized as Emerging Youth Cricketers. Zachary Carter received the Rising Star Award, and West Indies all-rounder Matthew Forde was presented with the prestigious President’s Award.
In team accomplishments, Wildey Sports Club claimed the Elite Division championship trophy, with Spartan (First Division), Boscobelle Sports and Social Club (Intermediate Division), and St John Cultural (Second Division) also receiving divisional honors.
The evening featured addresses from cricket officials emphasizing core values and clean competition. Dr. Adrian Lorde, a prominent anti-doping administrator, delivered a stern warning against performance-enhancing drugs, specifically referencing the controversial Enhanced Games scheduled for Las Vegas. ‘We cannot allow money to tempt us into compromising our values,’ Lorde stated. ‘Athletes risk their health, integrity and their legacy for these short-term gains.’
BCA President Calvin Hope encouraged younger cricketers to embrace pride, performance, and progress with humility and discipline. ‘Strive not only to win, but to inspire,’ Hope urged. ‘Not only to succeed, but to lift others, especially at this time in our nation where crime appears to be ruling some of our younger persons.’
BCA Marketing and Communications Manager Steven Leslie highlighted Barbados’ successful regional campaign, noting five junior tournament victories and a Senior Men’s Regional Super50 championship. The association also honored retiring board members Winston Stafford and Conde Riley for their combined 50+ years of service.
Looking ahead, Leslie confirmed preparations are underway for the 2026 domestic season, scheduled to commence on April 4 with the Three-Day Elite competition, followed by 50-over and T20 tournaments throughout the year.