Following an impressive achievement – the Saint Lucia Premier League – SPL T20 tournament has officially reached a ‘semi-professional’ status this season, and organizers are confident in the event’s significant success, preparing for an even larger and more impactful occasion.
The government has made a substantial investment in this competition, elevating it to ‘semi-professional’ status where team players and their technical units receive compensation per match and based on their final standings in the tournament.
The vital support from the government, the National Lotteries Authority (NLA), and various businesses is acknowledged, as organizers actively call for increased corporate sponsorship to foster the game’s growth and expand its visibility.
SPL’s CEO, Hasan Euristee, praised his dedicated team for ensuring a well-executed event. He emphasized the importance of incorporating professionalism into the sport for players and fans alike, acknowledging the government’s investment.
The fan base, community involvement, discipline, and overall popularity of the sport have surged.
Euristee confidently states that the SPL T20 is destined for greater achievements, and together, they will make it happen.
Sports Minister Kenson Casimir expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, revealing that the government allocated approximately $83,000 in monetary prizes for the competition.
The champion team, Sail Gros Islet Knights, secured $25,000, while the runners-up, SCCA South Castries Lions, received $15,000. Additionally, each player was compensated $500 per match, with standout players earning between $4,000 to $6,000 over the four weeks of the tournament based on their performances and team success.
“I’m thrilled that we have successfully concluded the first-ever ‘Semi-Professional’ cricket league in Saint Lucia, hosted at the Gros Islet Mini Stadium,” he stated during a media briefing, this week.
Kenson Casimir pointed out that this was the first time players received a fixed income per match, a significant step forward compared to the minimal payments previously offered. He highlighted the exceptional performances from players like Kimani Melius, Jard Goodman, Noelle Leo, and Tarrique Edward, emphasizing the enjoyable atmosphere and excellent environment at the GMS.
Moving forward, the minister announced various cricket programs throughout the island, including the Grass Roots cricket program for young players aged 7 to 9. He expressed excitement for upcoming initiatives that will allow these young talents to earn additional income.
“I’m enthusiastic about the advancements in sports, particularly with the High-Performance Centre (HPC), which has enabled many individuals to break into regional and international teams,” he declared, confirming that players receive favorable compensation for their participation.
Regarding crowd capacity and future expansions at the Gros Islet Mini Stadium, Casimir noted that the facility remains under development. He assured that further upgrades will take place, including the establishment of dedicated areas to honor outstanding community achievements.
He revealed plans for a ‘party stand’ area within the grounds, and once the project is completed, a grand opening is scheduled for August 5. The stadium will be renamed based on community suggestions, with announcements regarding the stands and pavilion to be made at the event.
In summary, the SPL T20 Awards for this season included the following:
Individual Awards & Milestones:
– Player of the Tournament:Kimani Melius (Gros Islet Knights) – 518 runs
– Batsman of the Tournament: Kimani Melius
– Bowler of the Tournament: Tyrel Chicot (Gros Islet Knights) – 21 wickets
– Fielder of the Tournament: Corlinus Calender (South Castries Lions)
Milestone Achievement:
– In a standout moment during the group stage, Tyrel Chicot clinched the second-ever hat trick in SPLT20 history, invigorating the fans.
Commendable Performers by Team:
– SAIL Gros Islet Knights (Champions):
– Jard Goodman: 95 in the final – performed exceptionally under pressure.
– SCCA South Castries Lions (Runners-up):
– Larry Edward: Best economy rate (4.36 RPO)
– Bolton Sayers: 187 runs in 9 matches
Ackelles City Blasters:
– Stephen Naitram: 365 runs – second-highest scorer overall
– Jayden Elibox: 14 wickets in 9 matches and 206 runs
– Dornan Edward: 14 wickets in 9 matches
Taking the Game Island-wide
SPLT20 Season 5 proudly featured a decentralized match structure, bringing high-level cricket directly to fans across Saint Lucia and ensuring they could enjoy the action in their own communities.
Matches were hosted at prominent venues: Mindoo Phillip Park, Phillip Marcellin Grounds, Gros Islet Mini Stadium, and La Fargue Playing Field. The teams thrived on the overwhelming community pride and enthusiastic support demonstrated at all host venues.
The organisers assert their gratitude for the unwavering backing from a ‘Proud Roster of Partners,’ whose generosity and commitment made this event a success. This includes: the Government of Saint Lucia, National Lotteries Authority, Blueprint Rentals, Piton Beer, LUCELEC, Bank of Saint Lucia, BTSM, Computer and Business Services, Coco Resorts, Nagico, Blue Waters, and Unicomer.