A major ownership shift has hit the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) circuit, as the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons franchise has been purchased by a group of Pakistani investors headquartered in the United States. According to Sabina Webster, the Falcons’ head of operations, the acquisition covers Worldwide Sports Operations, the parent company that holds full ownership rights to the CPL franchise.
Despite the change in leadership, Webster emphasized that day-to-day franchise operations will not face any disruptions as the team gears up for the 2026 CPL season. Instead of upheaval, she framed the transition as an opportunity for growth, noting that fans and stakeholders can expect only meaningful, positive change going forward. The new ownership group has made clear its deep commitment to advancing sports development, with a specific focus on growing cricket across the region.
Webster added that the new owners have laid out two core early priorities: expanding the franchise’s existing community outreach programs and investing in the development of young domestic cricketers, with the goal of nurturing emerging talent that can climb the ranks to professional international cricket. Contrary to speculation about a potential rebrand, the Falcons will retain their current name, logo, and full organizational identity, with no changes planned to the franchise’s public image.
Preparations for the upcoming season are already well underway. The franchise launched its official pre-season training camp on the island of Antigua on July 31, with all members of the squad housed at The Verandah Resort throughout the camp period. Webster explained that the in-person camp is designed to help players build on-field chemistry, work through tactical preparations, and get into peak physical condition ahead of the tournament’s opening matches.
Off the field, work is progressing to upgrade and prepare the iconic Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, the Falcons’ home ground, for upcoming matches during the season. Local industry leader Leon “Kuma” Rodney has been tapped to lead all venue preparation efforts to ensure the facility meets CPL tournament standards.
The Falcons are scheduled to kick off their 2026 CPL campaign on August 7 at Arnos Vale Stadium in St. Vincent, where they will face off against the CPL’s newest expansion side, the Jamaica Kingsmen. Two days after their opening match, on August 9, the team will return to the same venue to compete against the St. Lucia Kings.
In a move that has drawn attention from regional cricket fans, the franchise announced back in May that it had secured the signature of star fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, an Antigua native and key member of the West Indies men’s national cricket team. Joseph, who previously represented the St. Lucia Kings during his CPL career, will bring veteran bowling experience to the Falcons’ 2026 squad.