SPORTS Minister Kenson Casimir recently revealed that the preparations for the upcoming ICC Men’s World Cup are well underway in Saint Lucia. The Caribbean island is set to host six matches during the tournament, which is scheduled to run from June 1 to 29along with co-hosts the USA. Saint Lucia aims to create an unforgettable experience for players, fans, and locals alike.
At the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground (DSCG), finishing touches are being applied to ensure a seamless experience for attendees. Casimir emphasized that visitors to the DSCG will enjoy a fresh atmosphere during this year’s World Cup. Repairs are also nearing completion at the Mindoo Phillip Park and the Gros Islet playing field, where visiting teams will hold practice sessions.
Exciting technological upgrades await players and patrons at the DSCG. The addition of the ‘Spider Cam’ and a Large Digicel Digital Display Screen promises an enhanced viewing experience. Casimir expressed his enthusiasm for these innovations, highlighting their impact on the overall event.
“So …when people come to the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground they would enjoy a new feel of being part of this year’s World Cup,” Casimir told reporters, at a media briefing, Monday.
Beyond the sporting aspect, Saint Lucia’s Local Organising Committee (LOC) collaborates with major stakeholders, including the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA). Casimir stressed the importance of each sector playing its part in hosting a world-class event. The Ministry of Tourism has presented significant plans to market Saint Lucia globally.
“Hosting a world event requires each sector to play their part. And this is why from early on, we set up the LOC … and every sector is represented on that Local Organising Committee. And so, the responsibility for the marketing of Saint Lucia is where the Ministry of Tourism comes in and they’ve had (presented) some significant plans,” said Casimir.
With a high demand for tickets, Casimir urged patrons to secure their spots. The eyes of the world will be on Saint Lucia during the World Cup, and everyone should participate in this historic occasion.
Saint Lucia’s busy calendar extends beyond cricket. Over the next three months, the island hosts major sports and entertainment events, including carnival and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). In November, England’s Cricket Team and their passionate ‘Barmy Army’ fans will tour the region.
“We’re moving from the Jazz Festival and we’re going into the Cricket World Cup. Immediately after, we have carnival …and immediately after that we have the Caribbean Premier League (CPL),” the Gros Islet MP noted.
Casimir encouraged business-savvy entrepreneurs and young individuals to capitalize on the economic opportunities arising from these events. The year promises exciting developments, including upgrades to sports facilities across various districts. From the Aquatic Centre to the Vigie Sports Complex, Saint Lucia is poised for a remarkable year in sports development.
“This is going to be an awesome year for Saint Lucia in sports development. We do have a number of developments outside of CPL, including the Aquatic Centre, works on the Vigie playing filed and Vigie Sports Complex and the Phillip Marcellin Grounds, down south,” Casimir said.
As the sports minister, Casimir looks forward to moving Saint Lucia forward and creating lasting memories for all involved.