CWI committed to Florida despite low turnout for Pakistan T20S

LAUDERHILL – Cricket West Indies (CWI) remains steadfast in its commitment to growing the sport in the United States, despite disappointing spectator numbers during the recent T20 series against Pakistan here at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Lauderhill, Florida.

The 20,000-seat venue was less than half full across the three matches, with the majority of fans in attendance supporting Pakistan.

Ronald Stewart, a Jamaican living near the stadium, admitted he was unaware that international cricket was being played in his backyard, despite the venue being nicknamed “Jamaica Hill.”

However, CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow emphasized the long-term vision behind hosting matches in Florida.

“This is consistent with our strategy over the last couple of years, where we have spoken about expanding the game across the Americas,” Shallow said. “We are planning to establish a federation and will participate in major multi-sport events, including the Bolivarian Games later this year, the 2027 Pan Am Games, and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.”

While acknowledging that matches featuring India typically draw larger crowds, Shallow stressed the importance of maintaining a presence in Florida.

“We know the difference in turnout when we host India compared to Pakistan, but we must stay true to our plan of expanding our market.”

Whilst also acknowledging that more can be done to market and promote matches, Shallow also noted a key component that will bring out more Caribbean fans from the diaspora.

“We need to start winning, and it is as simple as that. We have spoken to the players and to the staff and reemphasised the importance of winning, and once we do that, we will start getting more fans coming out.”

The series, though lacking in local support, served as another step in CWI’s push to make cricket more visible in the US, a crucial market as the sport prepares for its Olympic return in 2028.

For now, the challenge remains engaging the Caribbean diaspora and American sports fans to fill the stands.

CMC