Home The Big Scores ABCA President outlines comprehensive development plans for cricket

ABCA President outlines comprehensive development plans for cricket

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The Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association President Leon Kuma Rodney has unveiled extensive plans for cricket development on the island

By Samuel Peters

The Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association (ABCA) President Leon Kuma Rodney has unveiled extensive plans for cricket development on the island, while addressing several key aspects of the sport’s administration during a recent media appearance on the Good Morning Jojo Sports Show.

In a significant scheduling announcement, Rodney confirmed that Antigua will not host any international cricket matches in 2025. Therefore, the ABCA is implementing substantial changes to its domestic cricket calendar, introducing a new tournament structure to enhance competition quality.

“We have been struggling with our two-day tournament in terms of quality,” Rodney acknowledged. “We must find a way to give players who perform well an opportunity to compete at a higher level.”

A notable addition to the calendar is the proposed President’s Cup, which might be rebranded as the ABCA Zonal Tournament. This competition aims to showcase the island’s top cricket talent. The association has structured its season to progress from two-day matches through Super 40 and T20 formats.

In a strategic move, the ABCA is planning to align its T10 tournament — a competition that is generally held in December or January — with the national Independence celebrations. “We’re thinking that the T10 tournament can be held as an Independence tournament, with finals coinciding with the food fair,” Rodney explained. This integration of cricket with cultural events demonstrates the association’s efforts to increase the sport’s visibility and community engagement.

Regarding the return of the ABCA T20 tournament which was absent from the cricket calendar due to the emergence of the Cool and Smooth T20, Rodney estimated a budget requirement of at least $100,000 to run the competition, emphasizing the association’s commitment to providing adequate operational support to participating clubs.

However, he noted that the tournament’s timeline might need adjustment due to the scheduled Leeward Islands Cricket Board’s T20 tournament in April.

The association is also addressing equipment challenges, particularly concerning cricket balls. Rising shipping costs have forced a review of the ball subsidy programme, with prices to clubs increasing from $60 to $75 per ball.

“We’re exploring alternative options, including recommendations from Trinidad and a ball supplied by Jomo,” Rodney stated, highlighting the ABCA’s efforts to balance quality with affordability. The cricket season will bowl off on the 1st and 2nd of February with the Two-Day Tournament getting on the way.

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