WITH a strong emphasis on the development of sports and laying the platform for professionalism of the country’s athletes-the Semi-Professional Cricket League was officially launched this week, marking a significant step in the advancement of sports on the island.
The new league will replace the former Saint Lucia Premier League (SPL) T20.
The newly established franchise-based tournament runs from April 11 to May 17 and will take place at four locations across the island.
During the press launch, SPL’s CEO Hasan Eristhee emphasized the need to elevate cricket in Saint Lucia beyond a mere pastime.
“We are committed to advancing toward professional sports,” he stated.
Reflecting on the league’s journey, he noted, “The SPL began in 2017 as the first league in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and this is a point of pride for Saint Lucia.”
Eristhee expressed gratitude for the government’s support, declaring it “a blessing,” and highlighted the players’ enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament.
This year’s lineup includes the Babonneau Leatherbacks, Micoud Eagles (defending champions), Central Castries City Blasters, South Castries Lions, Gros Islet Knights, Soufriere Stumpers, Choiseul Craftmasters, and Mon Repos Pioneers.
Matches will take place at Mindoo Phillip Park, Gros Islet Playing Field, Philip Marcellin Ground, and La Farge Playing Field.
Minister for Youth Development and Sports, Keson Casimir, revealed that discussions for proper player compensation started after the ICC World Cup, leading to the establishment of the Semi-Professional Cricket League.
He asserted that this initiative is crucial for fostering national pride among players and the community.
“This initiative underscores the Ministry’s commitment to sports,” Eristhee stated firmly.
He highlighted achievements such as the creation of the Semi-Professional Football League (SPFL), the establishment of the High-Performance Centre (HPC), and significant government investment in player compensation and development.
Casimir emphasized the need to provide clear pathways for young athletes, particularly cricketers, so they can pursue semi-professional opportunities rather than turning to other sectors like hospitality.
The Sports Minister asserted: “We want our youth to recognize that a career in sports presents substantial opportunities. Through the HPC and other avenues, they can aspire to the heights achieved by professionals like Daren Sammy, Johnson Charles, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, and Garey Mathurin and reach significant financial success.”