With fewer than 40 days remaining until the start of this season’s Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 tournament, excitement is at an all-time high.
The CPL trophy made an appearance in Saint Lucia over the weekend, celebrating the Saint Lucia Kings’ historic first CPL title won last September.
The CPL trophy tour is designed to heighten anticipation for the 2025 season, set to kick off in just over a month.
The Kings will feature four talented Saint Lucians: Mon Repos natives Descarte and Gaston, all-time CPL leading scorer Johnson Charles, and emerging star Ackeem Auguste. Furthermore, the Women’s CPL (WCPL) is set to showcase West Indies talents Qiana Joseph and Zaida James.
Fans flocked to Derek Walcott Square in Castries and Independence Square in Vieux Fort for the opportunity to snap photos with both the CPL and Women’s CPL trophies. They also met Kings players Shadrack Descarte and Keon Gaston, scored prizes from sponsors, and secured advance tickets.
“We have the Republic Bank CPL Trophy and the Massy WCPL Trophy available for fans to engage with, take photos, and benefit from early-bird ticket sales right here,” stated CPL Marketing Officer Christine Charles.
She urged fans to come out and support the Kings, emphasizing, “Let the players feel that spirit; they are the defending champions.”
Charles reiterated the urgency of building excitement ahead of the games, which will take place in Saint Lucia from August 23 to 31.
“We want to bring that Republic Bank CPL energy here early, amplifying the vibe for ‘The Biggest Party in Sports.’”
Before their home games, the Kings will kick off their title defense when the 13th edition of the tournament begins on August 14 in St. Kitts & Nevis, though they will have to do so without long-serving captain Faf du Plessis, who has retired.
Meanwhile, head coach Daren Sammy will continue in his role as West Indies’ all-format coach.