(Image Source: ICC)
[Saba Sports News] The 2024 Men’s T20I World Cup hosting rights have been a subject of extensive discussion in recent months. However, the Jamaican government has made the decision not to bid for hosting matches in the tournament. This choice was informed by a cost-benefit analysis conducted due to limited resources.
Sports Minister Olivia Grange explained that while opting out of the bid was a difficult decision, it was necessary. She stated, “We had been evaluating the cost and funding sources, which amounted to nearly half a billion dollars, to host a few matches in Jamaica. In our cost/benefit analysis with stakeholders, we considered various factors, including economic, social, and developmental impacts, as well as potential tourism-related effects and industry benefits using economic modeling based on current tourism performance. It was a thorough exercise that explored different scenarios, including the option of not bidding.”
Grange expressed her understanding of the disappointment felt by fans who had hoped to see T20 World Cup games in Jamaica. Notably, almost every Caribbean destination will host World Cup matches except Jamaica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis.
Grange emphasized that the decision was made after careful consideration by stakeholders and that the best course of action for the Jamaican government is to invest in the sport at the grassroots level.