The West Indies cricket team is gearing up for a challenging Test series against New Zealand next month, following a disappointing 2-0 defeat to India. With little time to regroup, the Men in Maroon are under pressure to deliver a strong performance. Legendary commentator Joseph Reds Perreira has emphasized the critical need for thorough preparation to adapt to New Zealand’s unique playing conditions. Perreira, a seasoned observer of West Indies cricket, expressed concerns about the lack of information regarding the Test squad’s current training regimen. He stressed the importance of acclimatizing players to New Zealand’s green pitches and swinging balls, suggesting that a contingent of players should be sent ahead for at least a week of practice. Perreira also highlighted the need for immediate planning to avoid the short preparation time that hampered the team’s performance in India. Regarding the squad composition, he advocated for the inclusion of Jason Holder and Jomel Warrican, despite the latter’s limited success as a spinner in New Zealand. Additionally, Perreira raised concerns about the fitness and availability of key fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Alzzari Joseph, whose participation remains uncertain. As the West Indies prepare for this crucial series, the focus is on strategic planning and player readiness to overcome the formidable challenge posed by New Zealand.
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Odwin into final stage of LPGA qualifying
Emily Odwin, a trailblazing golfer from Barbados, continues to etch her name in the annals of her nation’s sporting history. Having already made waves as the first Barbadian to qualify for a major championship at the 2025 US Women’s Open, Odwin has now secured her spot in the final stage of the LPGA Q School. This prestigious pathway offers the opportunity to earn membership on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and Epson Tour. Her journey through the qualifying rounds has been nothing short of remarkable. After a challenging opening round of plus-2 74 at the Plantation Golf and Country Club in Venice, Florida, Odwin showcased her resilience with a stellar minus-3 69 on the second day. She maintained her momentum with a minus-1 71 in the penultimate round and concluded with a strong minus-2 70 on Sunday, finishing four below par at 284 over 72 holes. This performance has earned her a place in the Final Qualifying Stage, set to begin on December 4 in Mobile, Alabama. Odwin’s golfing journey began at the age of 11, representing Barbados in regional and international events. In 2021, she became the first Caribbean golfer to qualify for both the USGA Girls Junior and the USGA Women’s Amateur Golf Championships. A student-athlete at Southern Methodist University, Odwin has a decorated history, including victories at the Royal Westmoreland Ladies Open, the Caribbean Amateur Junior Championships, and the HJGT Tournament of Champions in 2019. Out of the 196 players who began this qualifying journey, only the top 45, including Odwin, have advanced to the final stage. Notable players such as Maria Fassi, Jennifer Song, Sarah Kemp, and Latanna Stone missed the cut. With the deadline for declaring professional status set for November 14, Odwin’s focus remains on securing her LPGA tour card and continuing to inspire future generations of Barbadian golfers.
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SMS dominates Southern Zone Cross Country Championships
St Michael School showcased an exceptional all-round performance to emerge as the undisputed champion at the Southern Zone Cross Country Championships held on Tuesday at Princess Margaret Secondary School in Six Roads, St Philip. The event, part of the Barbados Secondary Schools Athletics Championship (BSSAC), saw St Michael School dominate across multiple age categories, solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in school athletics.
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Hosein wants top order batsmen to come good in decisive ODI
West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein has emphasized the critical need for the team’s top-order batsmen to deliver in the third and decisive One Day International (ODI) against Bangladesh on Thursday. The regional side narrowly clinched victory in the second ODI on Tuesday, relying on a Super Over to secure a one-run win and level the three-match series at 1-1. However, the Windies’ batting collapses in both matches have raised concerns. In the first ODI, chasing 208, they crumbled from 79 for one to 133 all out, losing by 74 runs. Similarly, in the second ODI, they slumped from 82 for two to 133 for seven before a late resurgence led by Shai Hope’s unbeaten half-century, Justin Greaves’ 26, and Hosein’s 16 forced a Super Over. Hosein, who joined the squad as a replacement for the injured Jediah Blades, stressed that the team cannot continue to depend on the lower order for runs. He highlighted the challenges of facing skilled spinners with a worn ball and urged the top half to exhibit better batsmanship. Hosein acknowledged the team’s resilience in the Super Over but warned against complacency, emphasizing the importance of execution in the decisive match. He also praised the team’s spin-heavy strategy, noting that bowling 50 consecutive overs of spin against Bangladesh was a historic first for the West Indies in ODIs. Hosein expressed confidence in the team’s ability to learn from past mistakes and secure a series victory.
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Amerikaanse troepenmacht groeit in Caribische regio en bij Venezuela
The United States military has significantly increased its presence in the Caribbean Sea and the waters off the coast of Venezuela since this summer, as part of the Trump administration’s intensified campaign against narcoterrorism. This strategic buildup includes a substantial deployment of naval vessels, advanced aircraft, and ground troops, marking one of the largest military mobilizations in the region in recent years.
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Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2025 to Showcase an Impressive Line-Up of Artists
The third edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is set to captivate audiences from November 26 to December 2, 2025, with a dazzling array of cultural activities. This year’s theme, ‘Culture in Colour,’ promises to highlight the artistic brilliance of over fifty local and international artists. The event will feature artist workshops, art exhibitions, and guided bus tours to studios and galleries across the twin-islands, offering a comprehensive immersion into the region’s creative spirit. Among the celebrated artists are Heather Doram, Mark Brown, and Makŏ Williams, alongside emerging talents from the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies. A special tribute at the Barracks Studio in Redcliffe Quay will honor the legacy of late Antiguan artists, showcasing their enduring impact on the nation’s cultural identity. The week will also include live performances, interactive sip-and-paint sessions, and panel discussions, such as ‘The Future of Caribbean Creativity,’ featuring diaspora artists like Kwame Delfish and Odessa Whitlock. Fashion designer Garrett Javan will debut his latest collection, ‘ZOIGE,’ while the ‘Heart for Art’ installations and murals will provide Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. With events like ‘Mandalas and Mojitos,’ ‘Rhythm and Vibes,’ and ‘Brunch with the Arts,’ the festival promises to be a dynamic blend of art, music, and culinary delights. Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, the Department of Culture, and Long Bay Brewing, Art Week 2025 is a must-attend celebration of Caribbean creativity.
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The International Seed Testing Association and IICA collaborate to upgrade seed testing and certfificationin region
In a landmark virtual ceremony, the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) formalized a groundbreaking partnership aimed at revolutionizing seed quality testing and certification systems across the Americas. The memorandum of understanding was signed by ISTA President Ernest Allen and IICA Director General Manuel Otero, marking a significant step toward agricultural modernization and food security in the region. The collaboration will focus on sharing technical expertise, training personnel, standardizing seed analysis protocols, and enhancing the capabilities of certification and quality assurance bodies. Ernest Allen emphasized the transformative potential of the agreement, stating, ‘This partnership is a bridge between our organizations. Just as a small seed can grow into something extraordinary, we expect this alliance to flourish into a robust collaboration benefiting all 34 IICA Member States.’ Manuel Otero highlighted the critical role of seeds in agricultural development, stressing the need for actionable strategies to improve quality of life across the hemisphere. The partnership will also promote regional technological innovation and facilitate greater participation in international seed trade, ensuring the Americas remain at the forefront of agricultural advancements.
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Lewis Calls for Independent Probe
Richard S. Lewis, an opposition Member of Parliament, has demanded an independent investigation into allegations of systemic corruption in Antigua and Barbuda, following Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s recent remarks on the issue. Lewis emphasized that corruption is severely undermining the nation’s integrity and hindering its developmental progress. He described those involved in corrupt activities as “dishonest, deceitful, and rotten,” while asserting that individuals who ignore such practices are equally responsible. Lewis called on the government to implement robust legislation and enforcement mechanisms to combat corruption, warning against the normalization of such practices. He specifically referenced the Vehiclegate scandal and other corruption cases, insisting that all involved must be held accountable. “Let the independent investigation begin, and let the chips fall where they may,” Lewis declared, urging transparency and justice.
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WIOC to Conduct Oil Spill Response Drill on Thursday
The West Indies Oil Company (WIOC) is set to conduct a meticulously planned oil spill response drill on Thursday, October 23. This exercise, a collaborative effort with the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) and the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Marine Services (ADOMS), will unfold near the Sea Island Jetty. The primary objective of this simulation is to rigorously assess the nation’s preparedness, emergency coordination capabilities, and environmental protection protocols in the face of a potential oil spill. WIOC emphasizes that this drill underscores their unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and operational readiness. Local residents and mariners are reassured that the activities are part of a controlled and well-organized simulation, ensuring minimal disruption and heightened awareness.
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Lighting up Bim: Three decades of partnership, pride
As November descends, Barbados transforms into a luminous spectacle of ultramarine and gold, a tradition now celebrating its 30th anniversary. This radiant event, deeply rooted in national pride, continues to flourish thanks to the enduring partnership between the government and Sagicor Life Inc. This year, the insurance giant contributed $30,000 to the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment to support the Independence Lighting Ceremony, a symbolic gesture of their three-decade-long collaboration. Minister Charles Griffith, speaking at the official handover, emphasized the significance of this partnership, noting its role in unifying the nation and celebrating its youth. He expressed gratitude to corporate Barbados for their unwavering support, highlighting the initiative’s impact across all 11 parishes. Tracey Knight-Lloyd, Vice President of Customer Experience at Sagicor, echoed this sentiment, describing the event as a testament to the company’s core values. She emphasized that the true essence of Barbados lies not in its electric lights but in its people, urging citizens to reignite their national pride. This year’s theme, ‘Celebrating Our Communities: Re-engaging, Reigniting, and Reimagining,’ serves as a call to action for all Barbadians to reconnect with their heritage and community spirit.