The cricketing landscape takes a controversial turn as former Jamaica Tallawahs owner Kris Persaud announces a bold move, citing the lack of support from the Jamaican government as the primary reason.
Persaud, now launching a new team in Antigua, surrendered his franchise to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) amidst growing dissatisfaction. The decision stems from the Jamaican government’s refusal to provide financial support, despite the economic and social benefits generated by cricket events.
Despite leading Jamaica Tallawahs to victory in 2022, Persaud received no acknowledgment or appreciation from the Jamaican authorities. This move is a strategic effort to cut losses and redirect focus to Antigua, where cricket is deeply ingrained in the culture.
“I could not continue to operate a franchise cricket team in a country where the government refuses to provide any financial support for the tremendous economic and social benefits it receives from event held on their behalf in and and out of Jamaica,” Indian origin Persaud, whose original name is Krishna Prasad, told Cricbuzz.
“We won the tournament in 2022 and received no acknowledgement/appreciation from anyone in the government, and so we have decided to cut our losses and leave the situation to the CPL. (We’re) looking forward to exciting times in Antigua where cricket is an intrinsic part of the culture.”
Kris Persaud, a Guyana-born, Florida-based businessman, aims to involve Antiguan legends as mentors, contributing to grassroots cricket development on the island. The new Antiguan franchise’s name is pending public input, with legendary Curtly Ambrose set to be the assistant coach.
“I bought 100 percent ownership rights from Manish Patel in 2017 and he played no part in any of my business ever. I’m 100 percent owner of the new Antiguan team,” Persaud asserted.
“We are taking names from the public and will decide upon them early next year. We already have Curtly Ambrose as the assistant coach to the new team open to including other Antiguan legends as mentors of the team. We plan to help flourish grassroots cricket all over the island,”
While Persaud’s experience highlights challenges in obtaining government support for cricket operations, the move to Antigua signifies a fresh start for him and a commitment to long-term cricket growth.
The CPL’s decision to close operations in Jamaica was based on sustainability concerns, leaving no viable options for the owners. Antigua, with its cricket culture and favorable environment, becomes the chosen destination for the new franchise
“The CPL have bought the Jamaica Tallawahs franchise from the current owners. The owners were left with no option but to sell the Tallawahs back to CPL as they could not find a way to operate the team sustainably,” a spokesman for the league said.
