KINGSTON, Jamaica — Cricket lovers across the Caribbean are counting down the hours as Sabina Park prepares to write a new chapter in its storied legacy.
On Saturday, July 12, the historic ground will host its first-ever day/night Test match, as West Indies take on Australia in what promises to be a landmark event for regional cricket.
The clash marks only the second day/night Test in the Caribbean, the first having been held in 2018 at Kensington Oval in Barbados. This time, the hallowed Kingston venue will take center stage, illuminated by a newly installed, ICC-compliant lighting system and backed by robust upgrades to its facilities—thanks to a collective national and corporate effort.
Grange, Sammy, Bennett confirm readiness: “It’s all systems go”
Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, has declared that Sabina Park is fully prepared to host the historic encounter.
“The [Jamaica Cricket Association] president has advised that Cricket West Indies indicated that the lighting expert has verified that the newly installed lights have met the required standard,” Grange explained. “They’ve been calibrated and refocused, and everything is now in place.”
Grange also highlighted the installation of state-of-the-art digital scoreboards, which promise to elevate both in-stadium viewing and broadcast quality.
“The large panel is up and everything is in place. The smaller panel, within the next 24 hours, will be ready as the software is now being installed,” she added.
Practice under lights: Positive reviews from both camps
Both teams have now experienced Sabina Park’s upgraded twilight conditions, with Australia training under lights on Wednesday and West Indies following suit on Thursday.
West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy expressed full satisfaction with the conditions.
“The lights look really good. Our batters and bowlers went through their paces and had no complaints. There’s a real buzz in the camp—everyone’s excited to play in this environment, especially at such a historic and beautiful venue.”
CWI and Corporate Jamaica team up for transformation
The successful staging of this Test has been made possible by a powerful synergy between government, cricket administrators, and private partners.
President of the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), Dr. Donovan Bennett, thanked those who supported the critical infrastructure upgrades:
“On behalf of the Jamaica Cricket Association, I want to sincerely thank the Government of Jamaica for their invaluable support in upgrading the lights at Sabina Park — a major step forward for cricket in our country.”
Dr. Bennett also acknowledged contributions from Courts, which refurbished the players’ dressing room and dining area, the Government of India, which donated new digital scoreboards, and Sandals, which assisted in constructing the scoreboard framework.
A call to the nation: Bring the family, be part of history
As excitement continues to mount, both Minister Grange and Dr. Bennett extended heartfelt invitations to Jamaicans to fill the stands and be a part of cricketing history.
“We all understand the importance of this match. It’s a first for Jamaica, and we want to give our fans five days of quality cricket and joy,” said Sammy. “The players are eager to rise to the occasion.”
“I encourage the Jamaican public to come out in their numbers for this historic occasion,” urged Dr. Bennett. “Let’s fill the stands and show our support. And remember, children under 16 are free, so bring the whole family and be part of this proud moment in our cricketing history.”
Matchday essentials: Time, tickets, and more
The match is set to begin at 1:30 PM (Jamaica time), with ticket sales available daily at local box offices from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM or online via www.windiescricket.com.
From every light bulb to every blade of grass, Sabina Park is ready.
As Minister Grange put it simply but powerfully: “It’s all systems go. Support cricket, lovely cricket.”
