The Jamaican government’s choice to refrain from bidding to host matches during the 2024 men’s T20 World Cup was driven by financial limitations, according to the country’s sports minister, Olivia Grange. Jamaica opted to conduct a thorough ‘cost-benefit analysis,’ which led to the conclusion that the expenses associated with hosting World Cup matches would surpass the potential benefits.
Olivia Grange clarified that they had contemplated the possibility of committing nearly half a billion dollars to host a few games in Jamaica. The analysis considered multiple factors, including economic, social, and developmental impacts, as well as potential tourism-related effects and related industry advantages using year-over-year economic models. This analysis was conducted in light of the current tourism performance.
After a comprehensive evaluation involving different scenarios, including the option of not bidding, Jamaica decided against hosting World Cup matches. It is worth noting that most cricketing destinations in the Caribbean submitted bids, with the exceptions being Jamaica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis. Consequently, seven centers, including Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Guyana, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad & Tobago, will host the games.
Minister Grange indicated that, following consultations with stakeholders, Jamaica’s best course of action was to channel resources into grassroots cricket development. As part of this effort, the government plans to invest J$ 100 million in youth cricket development and cricket programs in schools over the next five years. The goal is to contribute to the improvement of West Indies cricket.
Grange acknowledged the disappointment of fans who had hoped to witness T20 World Cup games in Jamaica but emphasized the need to make responsible decisions in the face of limited resources. She also mentioned ongoing discussions with stakeholders about the possibility of bringing international cricket to Jamaica in the future.
The 2024 T20 World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 4 to June 30, featuring 20 teams and a total of 55 matches across ten venues in the Caribbean and the USA. This marks the third time that a men’s World Cup will be held in the West Indies, with the previous editions being the 2007 ODI World Cup and the 2010 T20 World Cup.