A new cricket team called the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons was introduced on Tuesday, February 20th. They will be part of the Caribbean Premier League, taking over from the Jamaica Tallawahs who stopped playing after the 2023 season. The launch happened at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, which will be their home ground for the upcoming CPL 2024 season.

Earlier in December, it was reported that changes were needed because the owners of the Tallawahs couldn’t handle the team anymore. So, a decision was made to create a new team in Antigua instead. The CPL bought the Tallawahs franchise from its old owners. They still plan to have a team in Jamaica by 2025, making the tournament seven teams unless they decide to add more.

Ownership Shift From Tallawahs to Falcons

The Jamaica Tallawahs franchise, previously owned by Kris Persaud’s Worldwide Sports Management Group, has transitioned to the newly formed Antigua and Barbuda Falcons. This move comes as part of a reshuffle within the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) setup, with the Falcons now under the ownership of Persaud’s Florida-based company.

“We are brand new; we are here, we are ready… let’s get ready to play! 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,” Persaud said.”

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!”

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CPL 2024 Returns to Antigua After a Decade

In exciting developments for CPL 2024, the tournament is set to kick off on August 28 and conclude on October 6. Notably, matches will return to Antigua after a decade, with the island hosting CPL games once more. This marks a significant moment for cricket enthusiasts in Antigua and Barbuda, as they welcome top-tier cricket action back to their shores.

Moreover, while the bulk of the tournament will unfold in Antigua, the grand finale will uphold tradition by taking place in Guyana. The National Stadium in Providence will once again serve as the prestigious venue for the CPL 2024 final, promising an electrifying culmination to the tournament.