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The arrival of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Trophy at the Argyle International Airport on Wednesday, 15th May, 2024 was a historical landmark for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).  

The trophy was escorted to Vincentian shores by Global Media Manager for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Philip Spooner and received by former West Indies Cricketer and Chief Executive Officer of the Local Organizing Committee of Cricket World Cup Michael Findlay.

Speaking at a ceremony to celebrate the arrival of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Trophy to SVG, an elated Minister of Sports, Honorable Frederick Stephenson, noted that we deserve to have the trophy in SVG because the government has worked hard in its bid to ensure world cup games are played on Vincentian soil. Stephenson noted that SVG will host five matches at Arnos Vale Cricket Stadium and it would be the first time that cricket will be held in this country under the lights. This development would signal another historical first for this country.

The sports minister alluded to work done by the government in 2007 and that which is currently ongoing, to improve and develop the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. He further highlighted the developmental work taking place at playing fields across the country, noting that teams are currently playing cricket matches at the Park Hill Playing Field, in preparation for the World Cup. Stephenson also appealed to Vincentians to attend the games, adding that he is looking forward to all the stands being filled as the government continues to lift SVG higher in the development of cricket in this country.

Minister of Tourism and Culture Hon. Carlos James said he is happy to welcome the trophy to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and expressed his gratitude to the International Cricket Council (ICC) for accommodating Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

James assured the ICC that all the necessary security measures are in place for the trophy. He noted that the hosting of the ICC World Cup in SVG is a historic occasion and a once in a lifetime opportunity for many of our local cricketers. This, he said, provides the impetus for our next generation of cricketers to be motivated to move to the next level. 

Meanwhile, Prime Minister (Acting) Hon. Montgomery Daniel said the government of SVG accepted the offer to host ICC Men's T20 World Cup having recognized the immense value that the games would add to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Daniel said because of the games major improvements were made to the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex, noting that the games will expose more young Vincentians to professional cricket. 

Meanwhile, President of Cricket West Indies, Dr. Kishore Shallow also addressed the ceremony. He said the World Cup event is the biggest ever with twenty teams participating. He noted that it is a tremendous opportunity for economic and sporting development, adding that he is pleased with the progress made in the Caribbean and in his homeland, SVG in preparation for the games.

Dr. Shallow noted that the lighting of the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex is a tremendous accomplishment and he applauded the government on this achievement. He noted that it is important for everyone to appreciate the investments made by the government in sports. The President of CWI also extended an invitation to Vincentians and visitors to come to the games noting that it is a historic event that they would not want to miss. 

Current and former West Indies players from SVG also had an opportunity to take a photo with the trophy as part of the arrival celebrations at the Argyle International Airport on Wednesday.

Other activities included a fan engagement with the trophy in capital city Kingstown. The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Trophy Tour and Fan Engagement continue on Thursday, 16th May in North Windward and North Leeward. The trophy tour will sail to the Grenadine island of Bequia on Friday, 17th May and conclude with the grand launch of Vincy Mas 2024 at Heritage Square, Kingstown on Friday afternoon. 

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will host 3 Group D matches on 13th, 14th and 16th June, as well as 2 Super Eight Matches on 22nd and 24th June.

SOURCE: Agency For Public Information