CWI CEO and Jamaica’s Sports Minister Discuss Historic Australia Test & Grassroots Cricket Development
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Cricket West Indies (CWI) CEO Chris Dehring met with Jamaica’s Sports Minister, the Honourable Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, here on Monday to discuss preparations for the historic day/night pink-ball match scheduled for July 12–16 between the West Indies and Australia Test at Sabina Park.
CEO of Cricket West Indies (CWI), Chris Dehring, met with Jamaica’s Sports Minister, the Honourable Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, on Monday in Kingston.The high-level talks centered on strengthening cricket infrastructure, expanding grassroots development for boys and girls, and enhancing Jamaica’s role in West Indies cricket.
With Australia returning to Sabina Park for the first time in a decade, both parties emphasized the importance of collaboration to ensure a successful event.
Dehring praised the Jamaican government’s commitment, including its support for new floodlights at Sabina Park ahead of the Australia series.
“I am extremely pleased with the Minister’s proactive approach and the government’s pledge to work with CWI. The installation of new lights will elevate the fan experience for Jamaica’s first-ever day/night Test. This is a landmark moment for cricket in the region.”
Minister Grange hailed the discussions as “productive and exciting,” reaffirming Jamaica’s dedication to cricket development.
“Our government has shown tangible support for cricket, and we will continue investing in its growth. With Chris Dehring’s leadership, we are confident in the future of West Indies cricket and look forward to further collaboration.”
A major highlight was the government’s pledge of J$100 million over five years to bolster grassroots and women’s cricket. Dehring called this a “game-changing move” for the sport’s revival in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.
“This investment in youth and women’s cricket is crucial. With our region’s talent, especially among women, the Caribbean can reclaim its dominance in world cricket.”
