Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Dr Kishore Shallow has described the 2024 International Cricket Council Men’s T20 World Cup as a “transformative moment” for the Caribbean, revealing that the region reaped significant economic benefit.
Speaking recently during an address on the entity’s YouTube channel, the recently re-elected Shallow thanked Caribbean people for their support and declared that the success of the tournament had far-reaching implications for tourism, business and regional pride.
“Last year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup [which was won by India] was co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States. As we say in my hometown, St Vincent and the Grenadines, it was a good vibes,” he said. “No doubt, this tournament was more than just a sporting event – it was a transformative moment for our region.
Progress
“This event serves as a beacon of possibility,” the 41-year-old Vincentian said. “It showcased the power of sport – the power of cricket – to drive tangible and lasting economic progress. Each host territory within our region did exceedingly well. While it is obvious that some countries outperformed others, every single country must be proud. The numbers are nothing short of remarkable, Shallow said.”
His comments were made after a recent independent assessment conducted by the ICC and Nelson Sports that estimated the total economic impact across the Caribbean at US$1.66 billion, directly benefiting small businesses, workers and communities.
Barbados led the way generating US$428.4 million, followed by St Vincent and the Grenadines (US$224.8 million), Antigua and Barbuda (US$140 million), St Lucia (US$132.5 million), Guyana (US$76.7 million) and Trinidad and Tobago (US$68.9 million).
Beyond the headline figures, Shallow president highlighted the grassroots impact of the event.
“These figures are not just statistics. They represent real income for families, real opportunities for entrepreneurs and real investments in our tourism infrastructure.”
Shallow also revealed that accommodation spending generated US$174.3 million, while food and beverage sales brought in US$116.1 million. Retail and tourism spending amounted to US$133.7 million and flight and local transport bookings contributed another US$124.5 million. The secondary spending estimate stood at US$537.4 million.
Economic relief
“This World Cup brought direct economic relief to thousands of people,” he said. “From hospitality and transportation workers to security personnel, media professionals, local artisans and event staff – this tournament provided real employment and training opportunities.”
He noted that more than 383 000 fans attended the tournament, many of whom were visiting the Caribbean for the first time.
“This event has planted seeds for future tourism growth. An overwhelming number of attendees expressed interest in returning to the region, reinforcing our status as a premier global destination,” Shallow added.
As the region prepares to mark 50 years since the West Indies won the first-ever ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 1975, Shallow said the legacy of the 2024 T20 World Cup had already taken root.
“This last T20 World Cup inspired a new generation of young people who now see cricket as a viable path – not just as players, but as future coaches, administrators, broadcasters, sports marketers and entrepreneurs.”
Calling on governments and stakeholders to seize the momentum, Shallow urged: “This is not the time for complacency but for bold policymaking. We must continue to invest in our sporting infrastructure, strengthen our tourism product, enhance our digital and media capabilities and create policies that attract international sporting bodies and investors”.
He reaffirmed CWI’s commitment to collaboration stating: “Cricket West Indies stands ready to work with all the leaders across this region for the good of our people. We simply must work together.
“Every West Indian man, woman, boy, and girl, you are the true champions of this tournament. Your passion and unwavering support have set a new standard for what the Caribbean can achieve on the world stage. In the words of our brother David Rudder, ‘let’s continue to rally, rally ’round the West Indies’. Long live West Indies cricket.”
(JC)
