Antigua and Barbuda is set to further cement its standing as the regional home of cricket, following Cabinet presentations by Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons outlining sweeping plans for the sport's growth and development.
Cricket West Indies unveiled proposals for a new CWI Campus at its Coolidge headquarters — an international-standard facility designed to position Antigua and Barbuda as a premier destination for cricket, sports tourism and sports education across the Caribbean. The proposed campus carries an estimated price tag of US$6.6 million and is expected to be completed by March 2027.
The facility's plans include modern training amenities, upgraded technology, a cricket museum and a cricket simulator, with a deliberate emphasis on preserving and showcasing the rich history and legacy of West Indies cricket.
Discussions also turned to grassroots development, particularly the revival of cricket in primary schools. CWI stressed the importance of forging stronger partnerships between schools, the Ministry of Sports and national sporting organisations to rebuild the game's foundation and drive greater participation among boys and girls.
The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, meanwhile, outlined preparations for the upcoming season, detailing training camps, community outreach initiatives and programmes aimed at supporting the physical and mental development of players. The franchise also announced plans to create pathways for talented young Antiguan and Barbudan cricketers to access training and exchange programmes in established cricketing nations such as England, Australia and India.
The Falcons updated officials on a recent outreach effort targeting Antigua and Barbuda's Spanish-speaking community at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. The initiative aims to broaden the team's fan base and foster inclusivity through Spanish-language promotional materials — including a Spanish version of the Falcons' theme song — alongside targeted community activities.
The continued development of national cricketers Rahkeem Cornwall, Alzarri Joseph and Karima Gore also featured prominently in discussions. Officials acknowledged the three athletes' considerable talent and reaffirmed commitment to providing them with specialised training, mentorship and greater international exposure.
Taken together, the presentations reflected a shared vision: strengthening Antigua and Barbuda's identity as the heartland of Eastern Caribbean cricket while opening new avenues for youth development, sports tourism and broader community engagement.
