The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons were unveiled yesterday as the newest franchise in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), replacing the three-time champion Jamaica Tallawahs, who have become defunct after the 2023 edition.
This was confirmed by a press release from CPL. According to the correspondence, the team, which was unveiled at the Vivian Richards Stadium during a gala event, is owned by the founder and president of Worldwide Sports Management Group, Guyanese Krishna Persaud. This is the second franchise to emanate from Antigua and Barbuda, following the participation of the Hawksbills, which operated from 2013–2014.
The Falcons, which will be sponsored by gaming platform Parimatch, will make their debut at the 2024 edition, which will be hosted from August 28th-October 6th. The other competing franchises are the defending champion Guyana Amazon Warriors, Barbados Royals, St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots, Saint Lucia Kings, and Trinbago Knight Riders.
Persaud, who was the former owner of the Tallawahs, said, “We are brand new; we are here; we are ready; let’s get ready to play! The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons will bring unique energy and vitality to the Republic Bank CPL. We are ready to fly high and conquer what is before us. We want to establish a winner’s culture within the team and also a culture of winning and success off the field among every individual associated with this franchise and the amazing fans we will have at our special home base at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in lovely Antigua.”
He further said, “What you are witnessing today as we unveil the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons is something truly special, and I want to thank the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, who have worked closely with us to bring the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons to life. Antigua is our home. This country has a rich cricket history, and the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons will create more great history on these shores. It is now time for the Falcons to fly high!”
Meanwhile, Jeff Miller, CEO and General Manager of the Franchise, said, “Welcome back, Antigua & Barbuda! This is where the ‘party’ in cricket started, and we are delighted to be back for this exciting event. We plan to have a full house for every match with our Antigua and Barbuda Falcons on show. This is what we have been waiting for. It will be amazing to see the Sir Vivian Richard Stadium packed and our lovely super fans enjoying the action and the atmosphere, as well as seeing great cricket on the field, the non-stop party in the stands, and all the festivities that come with cricket in the West Indies.”
Details on the coaching and management structure of the team will be announced at a later date.
