GROS ISLET, SAINT LUCIA - MARCH 05: General view of play as Carlos Brathwaite of the West Indies dismisses England captain Eoin Morgan the sun sets during the First Twenty20 International match between England and West Indies at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground on March 05, 2019 in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images,)
The Caribbean is home to some of the best cricketing moments and has produced many world-class players over the years. But that’s not all there is to the Caribbean. Within the circled coliseums of the Caribbean, there are many iconic and unforgettable stories etched in these historic grounds. There are so many stadiums in the nation, each carrying its own incredible story. In this article, we are going to take a look at some of the top cricket stadiums in the Caribbean that have seen cricket transform and have been the battlegrounds to some of the deadliest battles in history.
Location: Bridgetown, Barbados
Capacity: 11,000
Establishment: 1871
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team, Barbados Cricket Association (BCA), Barbados Royals
End names: Malcolm Marshall End, Joel Garner End
Tucked away in the heart of Bridgetown, the Kensington Oval stands tall as Barbados’ cricketing pride. It’s not just a ground; it’s a place where history and cricketing passion converge. The story of cricket here dates back to 1882 when the Pickwick Cricket Club took the reins. Over the years, it has seen 43 Test matches, with the West Indies celebrating victories in 21 of them. The stadium underwent a transformative phase for the 2007 Cricket World Cup, receiving a BDS$90M facelift. Beyond international matches, the stadium is the proud home ground for the Barbados Royals in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL),
The Kensington Oval isn’t just any cricket ground; it’s where cricketing history has been made and remade. It was here, in 2007, that the Cricket World Cup final unfolded, with Australia clinching victory against Sri Lanka. Adam Gilchrist’s breathtaking 149 in that match still stands tall as the highest score in a World Cup final. The ground also played host to the 2010 ICC World Twenty20 final, marking England’s first win in an ICC multi-national event.
The stadium’s architecture is a blend of tradition and innovation. Post the 2007 revamp, the stands were meticulously rebuilt, retaining their classic names that resonate with cricket buffs. But it’s not just about the stands. The ground’s outfield and pitch square has been revamped using cutting-edge techniques. The choice of Tifway 419 hybrid Bermuda grass and a sophisticated drainage system ensures the pitch remains pristine even during Barbados’ occasional downpours. Adding to the charm are modern amenities like the jumbo TV screen and a unique relaxation area with a jacuzzi, giving fans an experience like no other.
Location: North Sound, Saint George, Antigua and Barbuda
Capacity: 10,000
Establishment: 2006
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team
End names: Andy Roberts End, Curtly Ambrose End
Built in the scenic North Sound of Saint George, Sir Vivian Richards Stadium was inaugurated in 2006 in anticipation of the 2007 Cricket World Cup. This stadium, named in honor of the legendary West Indies cricket captain Sir Vivian Richards, was designed to hold 10,000 passionate fans. For the 2007 World Cup, the stadium’s capacity was ingeniously doubled with temporary seating, showcasing the island’s commitment to hosting world-class cricket events.
Sir Vivian Richards Stadium has witnessed numerous historic moments since its establishment. It hosted Super 8 matches during the 2007 Cricket World Cup, elevating its status on the global cricketing stage. Notably, the stadium witnessed its first Test match in 2008, where West Indies hosted Australia, ending in a draw.
The stadium boasts two main stands, the Northern Stand, and the five-story South Stand, providing an impressive backdrop for cricketing action. Despite facing challenges like the roof of the South Stand being damaged by high winds in 2008, the venue has maintained its charm and functionality. One of its standout features is the inclusion of underground passageways, a rare feature in cricket stadiums, facilitating seamless movement for teams and augmenting the comprehensive experience for players and fans alike.
Location: Coolidge, Saint George, Antigua
Capacity: 5,000
Establishment: 2004
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team
End names: Pavilion End, Airport Road End
Coolidge Cricket Ground in Coolidge, Saint George Parish, began as the Airport Cricket Ground in 2004. Renamed the Stanford Cricket Ground by Allen Stanford, it hosted Stanford 20/20 and the 2008 Stanford Super Series. Its name reverted to Coolidge Cricket Ground in 2016-17 and resumed hosting matches after an eight-year gap.
In February 2021, the ground hosted the West Indies Men’s team’s first official International match against Sri Lanka. On this very ground, on 3 March 2021, Kieron Pollard made history with six sixes in an over off Akila Dananjaya, joining a rare group of players.
The 5,000-capacity ground features the Pavilion End and the Airport Road End, offering unique vantage points. Besides cricket, it hosted football matches for Antigua Barracuda FC and was a venue for the 2022 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.
Location: Providence, Guyana
Capacity: 20,000
Establishment: 2006
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team, Guyana Cricket Team, Guyana Amazon Warriors
End names: Media Centre End, Pavilion End
Providence Stadium, also known as Guyana National Stadium, was erected in 2006 as Guyana’s new cricketing crown, succeeding Bourda as the national arena. With an impressive capacity of 20,000, it was specifically crafted to dazzle during the 2007 Cricket World Cup Super Eight matches. Its spotlight moment came during the World Cup when Lasith Malinga’s phenomenal four wickets in four balls left cricket fans in awe.
The stadium stands tall among Caribbean cricket venues, as it made its mark by hosting six World Cup matches in 2007, including that Malinga magic against South Africa. Post-World Cup, it has continued to be a cricketing hub, witnessing ten more ODI matches, including the groundbreaking 2016 Tri-Series under floodlights, a first in the Caribbean.
This grand stadium, a symbol of Guyana’s sporting ambition, was constructed by the Government of Guyana with significant financial aid from India. Designed by R.K. & Associates and built by Shapoorji Pallonji Group, its construction cost soared to $25 million US dollars. The stadium not only showcases cricket but is a multifaceted facility with a shopping mall, luxury apartments, and the nearby Princess International Hotel. Its strategic location along the East Bank Highway makes it easily accessible, just a ten-minute drive from Georgetown’s heart.
Location: Kingston, Jamaica
Capacity: 15,600
Establishment: 1895
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team, Jamaica Cricket Team, Jamaica Tallawahs
End names: Blue Mountains End, Headley Stand End
Sabina Park, one of the oldest and historic grounds, set in the heart of Kingston, Jamaica, is a testament to the island’s rich cricketing heritage. Once part of a grand urban estate, the ground found its identity as the home of the Kingston Cricket Club. Its name, Sabina, draws inspiration from Magliano Sabina, reflecting its storied origins. With a backdrop steeped in history, this ground has been a cornerstone of West Indies cricket since its inception.
From hosting its inaugural Test match in 1930, Sabina Park has been a witness to some of cricket’s most memorable moments. It was here that Andy Sandham scored the game’s first triple century and where Sir Garfield Sobers displayed his artistry and etched his name in history with his 365 not out.
Sabina Park’s charm lies not just in its history but also in its picturesque setting. With the Blue Mountains to the north and Kingston Harbour to the south, it offers a stunning backdrop for cricket. Despite its modest size, recent upgrades have boosted its capacity to 20,000.
Location: St George’s
Capacity: 20,000
Establishment: 1887
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team, Windward Islands Cricket Team
End names: River End, D’Arbeau End
Located on River Road in St George’s, the National Cricket Stadium, previously known as Queen’s Park, has a rich history dating back to 1887. It was here that the Grenada cricket team made its mark against touring teams like the Gentlemen of America. In 2002, the rebuilt stadium earned its spot as the 84th Test venue, hosting a match between West Indies and New Zealand. This historic ground also featured in the 2007 Cricket World Cup.
With a legacy spanning over a century, this stadium has witnessed numerous historic moments in West Indies cricket. Notably, G. A. de Freitas and William Mignon became the first Grenadian cricketers to play first-class cricket here in 1899. Despite facing challenges like damage from Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the stadium has stood resilient, hosting memorable matches against various international teams.
The National Cricket Stadium is distinctively elongated towards the Pavilion end, lending it a unique baseball-like appearance. This architectural feature sets it apart from other Caribbean Cricket Venues. The stadium, funded by the People’s Republic of China, showcases a blend of traditional and modern design elements, making it a standout among historic grounds and cricket stadiums in the Caribbean.
Location: Gros Islet, Saint Lucia
Capacity: 15,000
Establishment: 2002
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team, Windward Islands, St Lucia Kings
End names: Pavilion End, Media Centre End
The Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, formerly the Beausejour Cricket Ground, stands as one of the Caribbean’s historic grounds. Situated near Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, this cricket stadium was established in 2002 with a seating capacity of 15,000. The iconic venue is also set to host six matches in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
From hosting its first international Test match in 2003 between West Indies and Sri Lanka to becoming the Caribbean’s inaugural day-night cricket stadium, its significance in the sphere of Caribbean Cricket Venues is undeniable. In 2016, it was fittingly renamed the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, honoring the West Indies’ cricketing giant, Daren Sammy, who led the team to two World T20 Championships.
Spread across 22 acres, the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium boasts world-class amenities, setting a benchmark for cricket stadiums across the Caribbean. It features 18 hospitality suites, team-specific gyms, lounges, and a lush green outfield. Its innovative floodlighting system, installed in 2006, paved the way for day/night matches in the region. With two artificial pitches and two turfs, it’s not just a cricket ground but a comprehensive cricketing facility, truly epitomizing the best of Caribbean Cricket Venues.
Location: Tarouba, San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago
Capacity: 15,000
Establishment: 2008, completed in 2017
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team, Trinbago Knight Riders, Trinidad and Tobago National Cricket Team
End names: South End, North End
Situated in Tarouba, San Fernando, the Brian Lara Cricket Academy stands as a modern addition to the Caribbean Cricket Venues. Completed in 2017, this 15,000-seater stadium is a tribute to the legendary West Indies cricketer Brian Lara. Designed with a blend of fixed seating and grass banks, it was envisioned to host warm-up matches for the 2007 Cricket World Cup. The venue is also set to host one of the semifinals of the upcoming T20 World Cup, along with a few more games.
Though initially intended to host the 2007 Cricket World Cup warm-up matches, the stadium faced delays and was replaced by the Frank Worrell Field at UWI St Augustine. However, it didn’t take long for the stadium to mark its place in history. The Caribbean Premier League chose it for its final matches in 2017, making it one of the region’s high-profile cricket stadiums.
Designed by the US architectural firm Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum, the Brian Lara Cricket Academy is a part of a grander vision. With advanced facilities like computerized biometric technology for athlete performance measurement, the stadium offers a unique experience for both players and spectators. Its four indoor cricket training pitches and comprehensive media facilities ensure it’s not just a venue but a hub for cricketing excellence.
Location: Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
Capacity: 20,000
Establishment: 1896
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team, Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Team, Trinbago Knight Riders
End names: Brian Lara Pavilion End, Media Centre End
The Queen’s Park Oval, situated in the heart of Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, stands as one of the Caribbean’s most iconic cricket stadiums. Established in 1896, this historic ground is owned by the prestigious Queen’s Park Cricket Club. With a seating capacity of 20,000, it’s the second-largest cricket ground in the West Indies, resonating with the spirit and passion of Caribbean cricket.
This ground has a rich cricketing history, hosting more Test matches than any other venue in the Caribbean, with 62 Tests as of April 2024. Its significance in Caribbean cricket is undeniable, having witnessed numerous memorable moments since its inaugural Test match in February 1930 between West Indies and England. From hosting World Series Cricket games in 1979 to games during the 2007 Cricket World Cup, the Queen’s Park Oval has been at the forefront of cricketing events in the region.
Often hailed as one of the most picturesque cricket venues, the Queen’s Park Oval boasts a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The iconic Brian Lara Pavilion End and Media Centre End stand as a testament to its cricketing heritage.
Location: Roseau, Dominica
Capacity: 12,000
Establishment: 24 October 2007
Tenants: West Indies Cricket Team, Windward Islands Cricket Team
End names: River End, Botanical Gardens End
Windsor Park, located in Roseau, Dominica, stands as a premier multi-purpose stadium. This emblematic venue, with a seating capacity of 12,000, not only serves as the country’s national stadium but also hosts a myriad of events, from cricket matches to cultural festivals like the World Creole Music Festival. Designed to International Cricket Council (ICC) standards, Windsor Park offers top-notch facilities, including private boxes, a media center, practice nets, and digital scoreboards.
Named after Windsor, England, Windsor Park has a rich history. Initially carved out of a rubbish dump known as Cow Town, the ground evolved into a popular venue for various sports, carnival activities, and state parades. After an initial attempt to build a national stadium in 1999 was abandoned, construction resumed in 2005. The stadium, costing EC$33 million (US$17 million), was a generous gift from the People’s Republic of China to Dominica. The Windsor Park National Sports Stadium officially opened its doors on 24 October 2007.
Windsor Park boasts a modern design with impressive facilities. The stadium is equipped with five cricket pitches, private boxes, and a players’ personality complex. Its digital scoreboards and state-of-the-art media center ensure an immersive experience for both players and spectators.
Wrapping up, the Caribbean’s cricket venues offer a fascinating journey through history and passion. This venue guide highlights the rich tapestry of iconic stadiums, each with its own tale and pivotal role in West Indies cricket.
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