Close to 6000 fans are expected at Kensington Oval tonight as Barbados Royals entertain Guyana Amazon Warriors as the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) makes a return to Barbados.
Organisers indicated that tickets have been going well and even though they don’t foresee a full house, they believe a large turn-out will attend the match which starts at 7pm.
This will be the first home match this season for the Royals, who find themselves at the bottom of the points table with just one point from four matches so far – three defeats and one no-decision due to rain. The Royals will have another blockbuster on Friday night when they host Antigua and Barbuda Falcons.
The other matches are next week: on Sunday morning against Saint Lucia Kings; next Thursday, September 11 night vs St Kitts and Nevis Patriots and Friday, September 12 against Trinbago Knight Riders.
After months of anticipation, the CPL’s return to Barbadian shores marks one of the most eagerly awaited sporting events of the year. The historic venue is poised to come alive with the sound of music and merriment. This year’s CPL has already seen thrilling matches across the region, with large crowds in Antigua, Trinidad and Saint Lucia.
“We’re ready,” said Barbados Royals captain Rovman Powell. “There’s nothing like playing in front of your home crowd at the ‘mecca’. The energy, the love, the pride… it’s unmatched. We can’t wait to give the fans a show to remember.”
Powell added: “Everyone loves playing here in Barbados… and everyone loves playing at Kensington Oval that’s why it is called the ‘mecca’. There is something special about playing here. It’s always a motivator to play at Kensington. The Bajan crowd can be a hostile one but if you do play good cricket, they will definitely appreciate that.”
The 32-year-old has great memories of playing at the historic venue. He made his lone T20 International century for West Indies there against England in January, 2022. (PS)
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