St. Vincent and the Grenadines launches Independence International Masters Cricket Tournament

The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, through the Tourism Authority and in collaboration with the SVG National Sports Council, the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture, and the Ministry of Sport, has officially launched the Independence International Masters Cricket Tournament, set to run from October 24 to November 1, 2025.

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The tournament, part of the nation’s 46th Independence celebrations, will feature 21 teams from across the Caribbean, North America, and the UK, welcoming over 400 visitors, including players, coaches, officials, and families. Fans can expect ten days of high-energy cricket, camaraderie, and Vincentian hospitality.

The competition will culminate in a T20 night finale on Saturday, November 1, at the Arnos Vale Cricket Ground, where the West Indian Masters XI will face the Rest of the World Masters XI. The West Indian side boasts an all-star lineup of regional legends, including Courtney Walsh, Curtly Ambrose, Mervyn Dillon, Sulieman Benn, as well as local stars Nixon McLean, Ian Allen, and Kesrick Williams.

In his remarks at the launch, Minister James said:

“The Independence International Masters Cricket Tournament represents the spirit of our nation, one that celebrates talent, unity, and resilience. It is a proud reflection of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ growing reputation as a destination where sport, culture, and tourism come together to create experiences that captivate the world. Hosting such a prestigious tournament during our Independence celebrations strengthens our sports tourism portfolio and provides meaningful opportunities for our people, from our vendors and hotels to our youth and athletes. We look forward to welcoming our regional and international guests to what promises to be an extraordinary showcase of Vincentian pride, culture, and hospitality.”

Minister of Sports, Hon. Orando Brewster, also highlighted the tournament’s wider community impact:

“This tournament underscores our commitment to sports development and the empowerment of our athletes and communities. It is more than a competition, it is a bridge that connects generations, inspires youth participation, and showcases the immense potential of sport as a driver of tourism and national pride. Through partnerships like this one with the Tourism Authority and the National Sports Council, we are demonstrating that sport is an essential pillar of our economic and cultural advancement. I am confident that this tournament will leave a lasting legacy for St Vincent and the Grenadines.”

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority is working closely with the National Sports Council and the Ministry of Sports to position the tournament as a cornerstone sports tourism initiative, driving visitor arrivals during the Independence season and further enhancing the country’s reputation as a premier Caribbean sporting destination.

Organizers hope the Independence International Masters Cricket Tournament will become an annual fixture, cementing St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ legacy as a hub for cricket, culture, and community celebration.