Many cricket purists do not consider the T20 version of the game as something for serious players or fans. That view may still prevail among many even after what can only be described as the tremendous success of the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League competition.
It was a milestone in Caribbean sport that has opened new possibilities: from opportunities for players, administrators and host countries to highlighting the importance of branding and exploitation of intellectual property rights. Most of all, it highlighted how much more it is a family game than the traditional format.Â
In the end, it did not matter so much that the Jamaica Tallawahs were the victorious team; neither did it matter that a Barbadian did not lead the Barbados Tridents. Rather it was about the onset of professional sport in this island – or rather, about its being taken to another level. What we have been watching and reading about in pro sport in North America and Europe is now here with us.
For those interested in the actual on-the-field play, they got their money’s worth, with a number of scintillating performances in batting, bowling and fielding. It was not perfect, but the competition offered a real contrast to the other two formats of the game – 50-over and Tests. Results were assured; batsmen took chances; fielders were alert and agile; the atmosphere was simply different – exciting and charged.
Four hours was all it took in the cool of the evening and it engaged the spectators, who responded by filling the various venues. Sponsorship played a key role and those who associated with the competition would have benefited significantly. Their money would have been well spent.
There were many lessons to be learnt by Caribbean cricket administrators from what the organizers and promoters of this private sector venture achieved. There are risks involved, but clearly cricket has the potential to be a strong foreign exchange earner, employment generator and also give our generally underutilized main cricket stadia built for CWC 2007 an opportunity to be better utilized.
The fact that no one is watching the Barbados Cricket Association’s competitions on weekends, that the regional championships are poorly patronized and that Test matches here no longer enjoy mass attendance does not mean they do not add value to the overall game.
For those traditionalists who believe that Test cricket is the only true format, they must recognize that its survival will no longer depend as much on those that play it and administrators. It is about those who watch it and participate at all levels. Cricket in the Caribbean needed a brand makeover, and T20 seems to fit that need like a glove.
We do not believe profits must be the only gauge to measure success in cricket. Congratulations to the organizers of the CPL T20.
