By Richard Yule, ICT tour manager
It is always a pleasure heading to Barbados: a shell-like shaped island perched in the crystal blue waters of the Lesser Antilles archipelago.
As you would expect, it has idyllic palm tree-stretched sandy beaches, friendly locals and that unique chilled-out Caribbean vibe that helps you wind down and relax.
However, I was not here to relax. I was accompanying our ICT group to witness some of the later stages of the men’s ICC T20 World Cup, including the final at the Kensington Oval.
After a day to acclimatise it was straight into the cricket with India versus surprise qualifiers Afghanistan. The normal buzz at the Kensington Oval was enhanced by the additional stands they erected to accommodate the extra interest in this global competition. From entry to the ground to food stands and our view of the cricket, all were first class as we watched India dominant the match and guarantee their spot in the next stage of the competition.
Star-spangled superb
The very next day we were back to see the ‘local’ team, West Indies, take on another surprise qualifier in the USA.
There was hardly a spare seat in the ground and the excitement levels were reflected in the terrific atmosphere being created by the enthusiastic home support. It was a new experience, as a cricket fan, hearing the Star-Spangled Banner prior to the match but a welcome one, as we know the fantastic game of cricket is trying to grow its fan base into new markets.
Incredible days out
As the matches moved on to the other islands, my group remained on Barbados. This gave us the chance to explore and discover what this island paradise has to offer.
There were boat excursions around the island, with the chance to swim with turtles and snorkel over sunken wrecks bestrewn with brightly coloured tropical fish and majestic sting rays.
A trip to the Mount Gay Rum Distillery for a lesson on how this popular Caribbean tipple is made followed, with the chance to sample a few.
Then there was a guided tour around the island, taking in the history, sights and sounds of this fascinating place from the days of its colonial past to present-day independence.
Our final event
On the eve of the final we held our exclusive ICT function at the Copa Cabana Beach Club in Bridgetown. As we settled in to this pleasant beach side venue the food and drink began to flow. Later our distinguished guests that evening arrived, Desmond Haynes and Don Topley, hosted by journalist and commentator Mel Farrell.
Our guests enthralled us with cricket tales from the past and then with questions from our group gave us their take on the current state of cricket. The evening concluded with prizes in a game of chance, including a Reece Topley-signed England cricket hat, a great souvenir for one of our lucky group.
Before we knew it, it was the day of the final. The weather was moving in but we headed to the Oval discussing who we thought would come out champions between India and South Africa, and hoping that the rain would stay away.
There was a great buzz of anticipation in the stadium as the finale of the tournament developed in to an exciting and close T20 cricket match. India triumphed in the last over and the celebrations began, serendipitously the rain then began to fall but by then nobody cared, especially the jubilant flag waving India supporters.
Book your Caribbean cricket holiday today
England are in the Caribbean for a white-ball series against West Indies in October and November, with matches on Antigua, Barbados and St Lucia.
Click here to see our tour options. Or contact us to discuss specific arrangements.
