Jamaica is inching closer to regaining its place in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), with discussions around a new franchise reaching an advanced stage. While the upcoming 2025 season will proceed without a Jamaica-based team, it is becoming increasingly likely that the island will return to the CPL fold in 2026.
The push follows the departure of the Jamaica Tallawahs, who were forced to sell back their franchise to the CPL due to financial constraints, including a lack of sustainable support from the Jamaican government. The team has since been relocated and rebranded as Antigua and Barbuda Falcons.
However, momentum is building for a fresh start. Reports from early suggested that the new Jamaican franchise will be backed by an Indian Premier League (IPL) ownership group, bringing renewed investment and global expertise into the CPL. The move is seen as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the CPL’s commercial model by deepening its ties with one of the world’s most successful T20 leagues.
At a press conference on Wednesday, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, confirmed to Sportsmax.TV that talks are progressing well.
“I’m in touch with CPL, I’m in touch also with our local stakeholders—the Tourist Board, the Ministry, and local private sector individuals or companies. We are in discussion. I can only say to you it’s looking good,” she said. “It’s a little early for me to say anything specifically, but the intention is to ensure that we can work it out so that we can be the host.”
In recent weeks, Sabina Park—long regarded as the spiritual home of cricket in Jamaica—has undergone key upgrades, including the installation of new stadium lights and a modern electronic scoreboard. These improvements not only enhance the venue’s appeal for CPL matches but also signal serious intent by local authorities to position Jamaica as a viable host for international cricket once again.
The CPL has expressed strong interest in returning to Jamaica, given its passionate cricket fan base and the island’s historical significance to West Indies cricket. However, government involvement remains critical, particularly with regard to ensuring long-term viability and infrastructural readiness.
Should all the pieces fall into place, Jamaica’s return to the CPL in 2026 could mark a major resurgence for cricket on the island, reigniting fan enthusiasm and creating fresh opportunities for players, sponsors, and the local economy alike.