CPL confirms return of Jamaican franchise for 2026 season

The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) on Monday confirm that an agreement has been reached for the tournament to return to Jamaica in 2026, marking a highly-anticipated homecoming for CPL cricket on the island.
This is on the heels of Jamaican Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia “Babsy” Grange revealing that a Jamaican franchise will make its return to the regional showpiece, via a social media post a few days prior.
As such, the CPL confirmed that the 2026 season will see the return of a Jamaica-based franchise, with four matches scheduled to be played at the iconic Sabina Park – one of the most historic and celebrated cricket venues in the world.
This announcement follows productive and collaborative discussions with the Government of Jamaica through the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport and the Ministry of Tourism, resulting in CPL matches being staged in Jamaica for the first time since 2019.

CPL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pete Russell welcomed the agreement and highlighted its significance for the tournament.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be bringing the CPL back to Jamaica in 2026. Jamaica has a rich cricketing heritage and an unmistakable energy that makes it one of the most special destinations in the Region. The return of a Jamaican franchise and matches at Sabina Park is something fans have been calling for, and we’re delighted to be working closely with the Government of Jamaica to make this happen.”
The return of the CPL is expected to deliver a substantial economic boost to Jamaica, with significant benefits across the tourism, hospitality, and transportation sectors and for small and medium-sized enterprises. The tournament will attract thousands of visiting fans, players, officials, and international media, driving increased hotel occupancy, local spending, and employment opportunities.
Beyond its economic impact, CPL’s return will provide a powerful platform to showcase Jamaica to a vast global audience. The tournament’s 2025 combined digital and broadcast viewership surpassed one billion for the second consecutive season, offering unparalleled international exposure for Jamaica’s culture, vibrancy, and sporting heritage.

The reintroduction of a Jamaican franchise also reinforces the island’s deep cricketing legacy and its ongoing commitment to elite sport and entertainment. It creates new pathways for local talent, strengthens regional sporting ties, and enhances Jamaica’s reputation as a premier host destination for world-class events.
Minister Grange welcomed the return of the CPL and its wider impact on the country.
“The Government of Jamaica is pleased to welcome the Caribbean Premier League back to our shores. This event goes beyond cricket – it supports economic growth, promotes our culture on a global stage, and inspires our young people through sport. We look forward to hosting players, fans, and partners in 2026 and delivering an unforgettable CPL experience rooted in Jamaican excellence.”
Jamaican Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett said, “The return of CPL to Kingston represents more than just world-class sporting action — it signals a renewed wave of energy for our urban tourism strategy. We are committed to showcasing fresh experiences, vibrant city offerings, and even more compelling reasons for visitors to choose Jamaica as their destination.”
The Government of Jamaica looks forward to welcoming the CPL family back to Jamaica in 2026, celebrating cricket, culture, and community.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) President, Dr Kishore Shallow, said: “Everyone at Cricket West Indies is delighted to see CPL cricket returning to Jamaica. The island holds a special place in Caribbean cricket, having produced some of the finest players in our history and generations of passionate supporters who continue to inspire the game. The return of a franchise to Sabina Park, one of the Region’s most iconic venues, is an important moment not only for the tournament but for cricket across the Caribbean, and we look forward to seeing the new team entertain fans and strengthen the bond between the players and the people of Jamaica.”