In an official announcement dated October 16, 2026, Windwards Cricket Inc. has confirmed its 15-player contracted roster for the upcoming 2027 Men’s First Class cricket season, a reveal that arrives alongside a transformative structural shift for the regional franchise. The organization has structured the new squad to blend seasoned international and domestic experience with exciting emerging talent, a strategic balance built to strengthen competitive performance in the regional tournament.
A key backdrop to this roster announcement is the franchise’s historic move of its core training and operational headquarters to the newly upgraded facilities at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in St. Lucia. This relocation marks a new era for Windwards Cricket, bringing the organization’s day-to-day activities and athlete development programs under one roof at one of the Caribbean’s most recognizable cricket venues.
Following the regional squad reveal, the Dominica Cricket Association (DCA) issued a warm statement of congratulations to all athletes who secured contracted spots for the 2027 season. The local governing body reserved special recognition for four Dominican players, described as “sons of the soil,” who earned coveted places on the roster: West Indies international batsman Alick Athanaze, fast bowler Gilon Tyson, young emerging standout Stephan Pascal, and veteran local captain Jervin “Gian” Benjamin.
The DCA praised the four Dominican athletes as outstanding role models for young cricket players across the island, highlighting their selection as proof of the deep-rooted resilience and competitive drive that defines Dominican sports. The full 15-member squad includes Sunil Ambris, Alick Athanaze, Jervin Benjamin, Teddy Bishop, McKenny Clarke, Kenneth Dember, Shadrack Descarte, Theo Edward (earning his first professional contract), Keon Gaston, Ryan John, Kirt Murray, Kirtsen Murray, Darron Nedd, Stephan Pascal, and Gilon Tyson.
Athlete preparations are already underway for the 2027 season, with all contracted players set to begin a comprehensive physical assessment and pre-season conditioning program starting November 1. Support for the four Dominican representatives remains overwhelmingly high across the island, widely known as the Nature Isle. Cricket association executives emphasized that the consistent dedication and commitment to excellence shown by the Dominican quartet has been a source of immense national pride. Local cricket fans and sports enthusiasts are now celebrating the players’ professional milestones, eagerly anticipating the chance to watch their homegrown heroes compete on the regional four-day circuit and represent Dominica on a larger stage.