Despite recent struggles on and off the field, Cricket West Indies CEO Chris Dehring has outlined an ambitious plan to revitalize Caribbean cricket through sports tourism. Speaking at the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2025 in Barbados, Dehring addressed the financial challenges and opportunities facing the region’s beloved sport. Recent setbacks, including a revised 2026 cricket calendar and poor international performances, have raised concerns about the future of West Indies cricket. However, Dehring remains optimistic, citing the enduring passion of Caribbean fans as a foundation for recovery. He emphasized the importance of leveraging sports tourism to attract global attention and investment. Key initiatives include the development of a 20-acre world-class facility in Antigua, featuring a cricket ground, high-performance center, and a transformed “Sticky Wicket” restaurant into an elite cricket academy and museum. Dehring also called on the Caribbean corporate community to invest in cricket, highlighting the sport’s potential to benefit the entire region. With the global sports tourism market projected to reach USD 645.76 billion by 2025, this strategy could provide a much-needed financial boost to West Indies cricket.