A Stabroek Sport comment
The inaugural Global Super League (GSL), a T20 cricket tournament, the latest addition to the vast pool of T20 leagues around the world, ran from November 26 to December 7, 2024, in Guyana. Endorsed by President Irfaan Ali as a landmark event to position the nation as a hub for sports tourism, the tournament’s impact has left more questions than answers. Speaking at his year-end press conference, President Ali highlighted the transformative role sports can play in boosting tourism and economic growth. In reference to the government’s vision, he said; “Our goal is to ensure that every new hotel is filled with visitors drawn by vibrant culture and sporting events.”
The GSL featured franchise teams from Guyana, Bangladesh, Australia, Pakistan, and England, with backing from ExxonMobil Guyana and a US$1 million prize pool. Designed as a showcase of Guyana’s ability to host international events, the league was intended to capitalize on the country’s growing reputation as a tourist destination.
However, the tournament’s inaugural hosting yielded mixed results. Sparse attendance on several match days and a lack of widespread enthusiasm suggested that expectations for the GSL were not fully realized. Limited marketing efforts and inadequate engagement with both local and international cricket fans can be looked at as factors that put a damper on the tournament’s appeal.
