Jamaica CPL team to return to competition – Jamaican Sport Minister

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport in Jamaica, Olivia “Babsy” Grange has revealed that the country will soon witness the return of a Caribbean Premier League (CPL) team, ahead of the 2026 edition.
Two-time champions of the CPL, Jamaica Tallawahs’ franchise saw their demise in 2024, and they were eventually replaced by the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons franchise.
In a social media post titled “CPL to return to Jamaica in the summer”, Minister Grange expressed an intention to have the CPL games on the island coincide with the country’s Independence celebrations, which will occur on August 6.
Grange’s social media post informed, “The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has announced that “the Caribbean Premier League, the CPL, will be back in Jamaica” this summer.
Minister Grange said that the Cabinet gave approval for a new Jamaica franchise and for the country to host matches in the CPL 2026 season starting in August.
“I’m very elated that the games will be around Independence time, so we’ll have an extended celebratory period. And I’m looking forward to the Diaspora coming to Jamaica to enjoy the Independence celebrations, the Grand Gala and CPL,” said Minister Grange.

The Cabinet’s approval comes after the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, and the Ministry of Tourism concluded arrangements with the CPL.
Minister Grange said the new arrangement would advance Jamaica’s cricket development programme.
“We have worked out some details in regard to how Jamaica will benefit outside of the T20 games; and we will be able to promote Brand Jamaica, Destination Jamaica, because it’s a combination of two ministries partnering with the CPL and the new franchise holders.”
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett said: “The Government of Jamaica is delighted to welcome the CPL family back to our shores in 2026 as we celebrate the exciting fusion of cricket, culture, and community. 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.”
Minister Grange said more details on the CPL’s return to Jamaica will be announced at a press conference at a later date.
There has not yet been any communication from the CPL itself on this development.