Cricket West Indies’ (CWI) application to utilize the Arnos Vale Playing Field for an upcoming Test match and three One Day Internationals (ODIs) between South Africa and West Indies A has been declined by the National Sports Council. CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow informed Asberth News Network (ANN) that the request was submitted through the local cricket association. However, the association was notified that the venue was unavailable during the desired period, as the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation had already secured permission for a World Cup qualifier around the same time.
Facility Manager Marcin Fraser confirmed that while the application was received, it lacked specific dates, leading to delays. “We have to always go back and forth to make sure if this was on or off,” Fraser stated. By the time detailed dates were provided, the football federation had already been granted permission for their event.
The cricket association confirmed that specified dates from May 17th to June 10th was requested. The football federation confirmed to ANN that they have a World Cup qualifier against Anguilla in June, though the exact date is yet to be determined.
Dr. Shallow emphasized that this represents a significant loss of revenue for the country due to the missed opportunity to host the series. He noted that hosting an A team differs from hosting an international game, where expectations are higher. Dr. Shallow reiterated CWI’s commitment to bringing games to Arnos Vale, acknowledging the support received there. Under his presidency, international cricket has returned to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, including world games.