GLEANER•
Jamaica set to attract 5,000 diaspora fans for CPL
Jamaica expects to attract some 5,000 diaspora fans for the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season, says Director of Tourism Donovan White.The regional cricket event, which returns to the island after a seven-year break, will run from August 7 to September 20, 2026, across six iconic Caribbean venues."In terms of CPL, we are currently expanding our marketing in the Indian, Pakistani and Sri Lankan diasporas in the United States and Canada,” White told the media during a Caribbean Hotel and Tourist Association (CHTA) press briefing in Antigua on Thursday.“Our target is to get as many as 5000 visitors in the country, particularly in Kingston, around the CPL, as well as for the Sri Lankan tour of the West Indies, which Jamaica will be hosting three ODIs and three T20 International in June,” added White.A total of 34 matches will be played, including the play-offs and grand final at Kensington Oval in Barbados.As cricket fever builds ahead of the CPL, it will be two months of non-stop action and entertainment activities in Jamaica, according to White.“It’s a packed period for sports and entertainment because, after Sri Lanka in June, in July, we have Reggae Sumfest right after, Best Weekend Ever and Dream weekend in August and then CPL,” White added, noting that the Independence week of celebration was also included.In February, Minister of Sport Olivia Grange announced that the CPL will be back in Jamaica this summer.Grange said she is optimistic about the performance of the Jamaica Kingsmen in the Republic Bank CPL and that the new arrangement will advance Jamaica’s cricket development programme.Cabinet gave approval for a new Jamaica franchise and for the country to host matches in August.At the time, Grange stated that she is very elated that the games will be around Independence time, so the island will have an extended celebratory period.She also stated that the country will be able to promote Brand Jamaica, Destination Jamaica, because it's a combination of two ministries partnering with the CPL and the new franchise holders.“We are encouraging travellers who are looking for adventure outdoor activities, and in particular sports and entertainment, to choose Jamaica,” said White.Jamaica last hosted a CPL match in 2019 when the Jamaica Tallawahs played their final home game at Sabina Park.Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett also said in February that the island was set to reap major benefits from the CPL’s return.Bartlett noted that the Government of Jamaica is delighted to welcome the CPL family back to our shores in 2026 as the country celebrates the exciting fusion of cricket, culture, and community.The return to Kingston represents more than just world-class sporting action, it signals a renewed wave of energy for the island's urban tourism strategy. The tourism ministry is committed to showcasing fresh experiences, vibrant city offerings, and even more compelling reasons for visitors to choose Jamaica as their destination, Bartlett said at the time.Jamaica Kingsmen will play their opening match against Antigua Falcons on August 7 in St Vincent at 7 p.m.
