Cricket West Indies (CWI) leadership has announced major plans to transform Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua into a world-class, multi-use development, positioning it as a centerpiece for regional sport, culture, and commerce.
Chris Dehring, CWI’s Chief Executive, emphasized the strategic opportunity to leverage the region’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme to attract global investors.
“Our aim is to turn Coolidge into more than a cricket venue – we see it as a dynamic, multi-use development hub that brings together sport, culture, and commerce,” Dehring said. “With the right partnerships, this project can be a blueprint for how sport can drive meaningful investment.”
Citizenship by Investment at the heart of CWI’s strategy
Speaking at a high-level panel during the CIS25 conference, Dehring confirmed that CWI is actively exploring ways to integrate the CBI framework into its broader development model.
“In addition, every year we broadcast cricket from the region to millions of viewers worldwide, many of whom the CBI programme could be of interest,” he noted, highlighting cricket’s global reach as a key asset in attracting foreign investment.
Dehring elaborated on cricket’s evolving economic role, framing it as a commercial vehicle for sustainable growth across the Caribbean.
“Cricket has always been more than just a game in the Caribbean – it’s an identity, a brand, and a global asset,” he said. “Now it represents a significant platform to attract regional investment, especially from East Asian and North American markets where there is vibrant interest in the sport.”
Highlighting the untapped potential among high-net-worth individuals passionate about cricket, Dehring added:
“By engaging high net worth fans more deliberately through cricket, we can attract capital that not only enhances our cricketing infrastructure but also drives broader economic growth.”
Shallow highlights unified regional commitment
CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow echoed Dehring’s sentiments, stressing the critical importance of strategic investment for the future of Caribbean cricket and the regional economy.
“The Citizenship by Investment programme offers a valuable pathway for attracting meaningful investment into cricket and other areas of regional development. It provides an opportunity to connect global capital with our ambitions to grow the game and strengthen the Caribbean’s economic landscape,” Dr. Shallow said.
Reflecting on the strong participation of regional leaders at the CIS25 conference, Dr. Shallow emphasized the growing momentum behind these initiatives.
“The level of engagement from regional leaders at CIS25 reflects a shared commitment to progress. With this kind of unified interest, we can consolidate our efforts and create greater economic opportunities for all Caribbean people,” he added.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
