Despite Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) men’s football team being eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, head coach Dwight Yorke has expressed his desire to remain in the role. Yorke, who took charge of the team in November 2022, emphasized his commitment to building a stronger foundation for TT football, even as the team fell short of their World Cup aspirations. The TTFA (Trinidad and Tobago Football Association) will now decide whether to extend his contract beyond the qualifiers. Yorke’s tenure has been marked by progress, but the team’s inability to secure crucial victories in the final round of qualifiers ultimately sealed their fate. TT’s hopes were dashed after a 1-1 draw with Jamaica on November 13, leaving them third in Group B of the Concacaf qualifiers. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, TT struggled with finishing, a recurring issue throughout the campaign. Yorke, visibly disappointed but proud of his players, acknowledged the challenges and called for long-term planning to improve TT’s chances in future tournaments. With the 2030 World Cup in sight, Yorke urged the TTFA to implement structural changes and support systems to elevate the team’s performance. He remains focused on the upcoming match against Bermuda, aiming to end the qualifiers on a positive note.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Windies look to rebound in ODIs against New Zealand
The West Indies cricket team is set to face New Zealand in the first of a three-match ODI series at Hagley Oval on November 15, starting at 9 pm TT time. This encounter follows a disappointing 3-1 loss in the T20 series against the Black Caps. The Caribbean squad is eager to turn their fortunes around in the 50-over format, despite a recent 2-1 ODI series defeat to Bangladesh in late October. This series marks the penultimate engagement for the West Indies in the 2025 season, with a three-match Test series against New Zealand scheduled for December to conclude their multi-format tour. The team has bolstered their lineup with the return of opener John Campbell after a six-year hiatus, along with the inclusion of fast bowlers Johann Layne and Shamar Springer, both making their ODI debuts. All-rounder Matthew Forde also rejoins the squad following a shoulder injury sustained during the T20 series. The Windies last tasted ODI success in August with a 2-1 victory over Pakistan in the Caribbean, following a 3-0 loss to England in May. A series win against New Zealand would mean the West Indies have secured two out of their four ODI series this year. The squad, led by captain Shai Hope, includes a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, all aiming to make a significant impact in the upcoming matches.
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Sovereignty surrendered through borrowed rhetoric
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s handling of international concerns regarding Caribbean military operations has sparked significant criticism, with accusations of policy abdication and foreign alignment overshadowing Trinidad and Tobago’s sovereignty. The controversy centers on the government’s dismissal of legal and ethical concerns raised by international allies, including the UK, France, and the EU, over military strikes in Caribbean waters that have resulted in 75 deaths. Critics argue that the Prime Minister’s reliance on U.S. State Department rhetoric and her labeling of scrutiny as “fake news” undermines democratic accountability and regional diplomatic efforts. The government’s adoption of a “narco-terrorism” narrative to justify extrajudicial actions has further fueled discontent, with opponents accusing the administration of weaponizing public fear to suppress dissent. The erosion of the “zone of peace” framework, a decades-old Caribbean consensus on managing great power competition, has been particularly alarming. Citizens are increasingly frustrated with the government’s prioritization of foreign interests over transparency and national sovereignty. The Prime Minister’s failure to address these concerns independently, instead amplifying foreign officials’ statements, has raised questions about Trinidad and Tobago’s capacity for self-determination. Critics warn that without a demand for accountability, the nation risks losing its independence to governance by proxy.
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Windies Under-19s ready for Youth ODI series versus England
The West Indies Under-19 men’s cricket team is set to intensify their preparations for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup with a seven-match Youth One-Day International (ODI) series against England’s Under-19 squad. The series will take place from November 16 to December 1 at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada. This encounter marks a pivotal step in the young Windies’ journey as they aim to fine-tune their skills and strategies ahead of the global tournament. The 16-member squad features two standout Trinidadian players, Aadian Racha and Brendan Boodoo, the latter having recently clinched the TT Cricket Board’s Best Youth Player of the Year award. The team also welcomes back DeShawn James from injury, alongside newcomers Tanez Francis and Kunal Tilokani, who earned their spots following stellar performances in the regional Under-17 tournament. While Afraz Ali Buhdoo, Micah Greenidge, and Pajay Nelson will miss this series, they remain part of a broader player pool from which the final World Cup squad will be selected. Additionally, the talented duo of batsman Jewel Andrew and leg-spinner Micah McKenzie, both selected for the Leewards Islands Hurricanes in the upcoming Regional Super50 tournament, are expected to bolster the Windies’ future prospects. Coach Rohan Nurse highlighted the team’s resilience during their recent 4-3 series victory over Sri Lanka, emphasizing the importance of maintaining intensity in batting, bowling, and fielding. He stressed the need for players to convert starts into substantial scores and to clearly define their roles within the team. The series against England promises to be a critical test for the young Windies as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.
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Football giants indeed
The San Fernando Giants, a football club with a rich history spanning 75 years, recently celebrated its milestone anniversary with a series of commemorative events. Established as one of the longest-surviving active football clubs, the Giants have evolved from their origins as the Lantern Giants to their current incarnation, rooted in the heart of San Fernando. The celebrations included a thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church and an awards ceremony held in the church hall on November 1. Notably, the club has thrived without significant sponsorship, relying instead on the dedication of volunteers and the unwavering support of the local community. This grassroots approach has ensured not only the club’s survival but also its continued relevance in fostering youth development and community spirit. Senator David Nakhid, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, attended the awards ceremony, highlighting the club’s enduring legacy and the long-term commitment of its members. The San Fernando Giants stand as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in sports, offering a model for other clubs to emulate in an era where such structures are increasingly rare. As the club continues its youth programs, it remains a beacon of grassroots development and a source of pride for the city.
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No need for mokofear, CoP
In a recent letter to the editor, Arthur Dash, a concerned citizen, voiced his frustration with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and its leadership under Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro. Dash criticized Guevarro’s recent remarks referencing the ‘vengeance of moko,’ a local cultural figure, as an inappropriate response to the pervasive crime plaguing the nation. Dash argued that such rhetoric is ineffective in addressing the root causes of citizen distrust in law enforcement. He pointed out that the Police Service Act, along with the judiciary and the Director of Public Prosecutions, has failed to support Guevarro in purging the TTPS of corrupt officers involved in extortion, murder, kidnapping, human trafficking, and other serious crimes. Dash highlighted the reluctance of both citizens and police officers to report wrongdoing, citing a lack of tangible consequences for offenders. Instead, corrupt officers often face minimal penalties, such as suspension on half pay, which Dash described as an improvement rather than a punishment. The letter concluded with a stark reminder that while the police may fear the ‘vengeance of moko,’ citizens continue to live in fear of crime every day in Trinidad and Tobago.
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Manhunt for Carrera Prison escapee
A high-stakes manhunt has been launched following the escape of Jamal Joseph, a prisoner from Carrera Convict Prison, located on an island off Chaguaramas. Joseph, who was serving a five-year sentence for motor vehicle larceny and was due for release in October 2028, was discovered missing during routine checks at approximately 8:32 pm on November 14. The Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service has activated its emergency response protocols, mobilizing national security agencies, including the TT Police Service, TT Defence Force, and Operational Command Centre, in a coordinated effort to locate and apprehend the fugitive. Joseph is considered armed and dangerous, prompting authorities to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information to the nearest police station or the prison hotline at 800-PRSN (7776). Simultaneously, an internal investigation is underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the escape, as law enforcement intensifies its search efforts.
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Classic focaccia for beginners
Focaccia, a beloved Italian bread, has captured the hearts of bakers worldwide with its simplicity, versatility, and rich olive oil flavor. Naomi Anderson, founder of Unicakery in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, shares her passion for this rustic bread, drawing parallels to the local roast bake but with a Mediterranean twist. Anderson highlights its beginner-friendly nature, making it an ideal choice for novice bakers and a canvas for culinary creativity. Whether adorned with rosemary and sea salt or vibrant vegetables, focaccia brings warmth and artistry to the table.
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Xtra Foods donates $20k to upgrade Success Laventille computer lab
Students at Success Laventille Secondary School are set to benefit from a significant upgrade to their computer lab, thanks to a generous $20,000 donation from Xtra Foods supermarket. The contribution was announced in a press release on November 14, 2025, and the ceremonial cheque was presented during the school’s graduation ceremony by Xtra Foods CEO Angelo Daniel Austin, an alumnus of the institution. Austin, who served as the event’s keynote speaker, emphasized the importance of investing in education to empower future generations. He shared his personal journey from being a student at the school to becoming a CEO, highlighting the transformative power of faith, perseverance, and belief. Austin also expressed gratitude to Anon Naipaul, executive chairman of Xtra Foods, for his mentorship and support over the years. The donation is part of Xtra Foods’ broader mission to nurture talent, inspire growth, and uplift underserved communities. Austin stated, “When we invest in education, we’re not just upgrading labs, we’re opening doors.” He further emphasized the importance of equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world, describing them as future innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders. The initiative reflects Xtra Foods’ commitment to education, equity, and empowerment, as the company continues to invest in the shared future of the communities it serves.
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Make cutting grass priority
In a commendable move, MP Stuart Young and the Port of Spain City Corporation have stepped up to address the fallout from the shutdown of Cepep and URP programs by employing former workers in the Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West constituency and surrounding areas. This initiative not only provides these displaced individuals with a source of income but also ensures the cleanliness and maintenance of local communities. The approach mirrors a similar effort previously undertaken by Mayor Robert Parris in San Fernando. The closure of Cepep and URP has left thousands of vulnerable citizens without livelihoods, while also highlighting the critical role these workers played in maintaining public spaces. Despite assurances that local corporations would fill the gap, the reality is that overgrown vegetation and neglected areas are evident across the country. The author, Nigel Seenathsingh, emphasizes the need to focus on fundamental tasks like grass cutting before pursuing more ambitious AI-driven revitalization plans. This pragmatic approach, he argues, is essential for meaningful progress.