The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) for the 2024 season has officially replaced the Jamaica Tallawahs with a new franchise, the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons. The Tallawahs, triumphant in 2013, 2016, and 2022, were disbanded last year due to sustainability challenges as declared by their owners.
The Falcons become the second franchise based in Antigua, following the Antigua Hawksbills in the initial two CPL seasons. However, the Hawksbills were later replaced by the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in 2015.
Kris Persaud, a Guyanese businessman residing in Florida and former owner of the Tallawahs, will be the proprietor of the Falcons. The team’s home matches are scheduled to take place at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
“We are brand new; we are here, we are ready… let’s get ready to play!” Persaud said in a statement. “The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons will bring a unique energy and vitality to the CPL. We are ready to fly high and conquer what is before us.”
“We want to establish a winner’s culture within the team and also a culture of winning and success off the field – among every individual associated with this franchise and the amazing fans we will have at our special home base at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in lovely Antigua.”
“What you are witnessing today as we unveil the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons, is something truly special and I want to thank the Government of Antigua & Barbuda, who have worked closely with us to bring the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons to life.”
“Antigua is our home… This country has a rich cricket history and the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons will create more great history on these shores. It is now time for the Falcons to fly high!.” he added.
The 2024 season will feature six franchises: Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago.
CPL is dedicated to introducing another franchise based in Jamaica
The CPL has reacquired the rights to the Tallawahs, and there is a commitment to reintroduce a franchise from Jamaica, the largest island in the Caribbean, starting from 2025. This initiative aims to expand the tournament to a seven-team format.
The Guyana Amazon Warriors are the reigning champions, securing their inaugural CPL title by defeating the Trinbago Knight Riders with a nine-wicket victory in the final of the previous season.
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