BASSETERRE, St Kitts, CMC – St Kitts and Nevis Patriots will play four games in six days here starting June 30, as they launch their bid to capture the 2016 edition of the Hero Caribbean Premier League.
The franchise, which made its debut in the tournament last year, will open their campaign against two-time finalists Guyana Amazon Warriors at Warner Park before also clashing with 2013 champions Jamaica Tallawahs, St Lucia Zouks and 2014 winners Barbados Pride.
While the dates for the St Kitts leg have been announced, CPL organisers are still to reveal the official dates or overall fixtures for the tournament.
Richie Berridge, Chief Operating Officer of the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, said it was important the franchise start its advance planning.
“We are delighted to confirm our fixture schedule for the forthcoming CPL campaign. By announcing our schedule today, it will enable all of our key stakeholders, particularly our squad and management, loyal supporters and partners, to plan accordingly,” Berridge said.
“With our most competitive roster now assembled, we are also looking forward to welcoming some of the best West Indies and international talent to St Kitts & Nevis in the opening week of CPL 2016. On behalf of the Patriots I would finally like to thank our government partners for their support over the last few months.
“Their commitment and appreciation of the significant role that CPL contributes economically, which enables us to market the game and strive for excellence.”
After a quiet first season, Patriots are expected to pose a strong challenge especially since picking up the likes of West Indies T20 star Lendl Simmons and South Africa T20 captain Faf du Plessis in February’s draft.
Overseas players Brad Hodge of Australia and Sri Lankan Thisara Perera further boost the Patriots squad, which also includes World number one T20 bowler, leg-spinner Samuel Badree.
Sports Minister Shawn Richards said CPL’s presence would continue to help St Kitts in its bid to become a major cricket destination.
“While we embrace the obvious gains of tourism, marketing and investment promotion of our Federation, through these internationally televised games and the massive influx of cricket loyalists that are intrinsic to the CPL tournament, our vision of a mature cricket industry impacting the holistic development of our twin-island nation, with particular resource to youth social and entrepreneurial development, retains the greatest priority,” he said.
Following their opening 8 pm game against Amazon Warriors, Patriots take on Tallawahs on July 2 in a midday fixture, Zouks the following day at 4 pm, before closing out with a 7 pm clash with Pride.
