Sabina Park Receives Major Indian Technology Upgrade

Sabina Park, one of the most recognisable venues in West Indies cricket, has entered a new technological era following the unveiling of a modern LED electronic scoreboard donated by the Government of India.

The upgrade was formally presented on Sunday during an official ceremony attended by India’s Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar, who is on a working visit to Jamaica. He unveiled the new installation at the historic ground and also revealed a newly designed India Jamaica friendship logo, intended to reflect growing cooperation between both countries.

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness expressed appreciation for the donation, describing it as a meaningful contribution to the continued development of sport in the country. He said India’s support has been consistent and long standing, particularly in relation to cricket infrastructure and youth development.

“The scoreboard itself is a timely addition to Sabina Park, particularly as Jamaica prepares to return to the Caribbean Premier League this summer with our own new local franchise, the Jamaica Kingsmen,” Holness said.

He also highlighted previous Indian assistance, including the donation of more than 90 cricket kits in January 2024 valued at approximately US$50,000, which were distributed to schools across Jamaica. In addition, he referenced a US$2.1 million grant provided in 2014 to install floodlights at Sabina Park, allowing for the staging of night matches for the first time at the venue.

Holness noted that the relationship between both countries extends beyond infrastructure. He pointed to the symbolic friendship reflected in shared admiration for cricketing figures, mentioning Jamaican appreciation for Sachin Tendulkar and Indian fans’ affection for Chris Gayle.

“This relationship is built on warmth, longevity and creativity,” he said, adding that cricket remains a strong cultural bridge between the two nations.

Dr Jaishankar said the new scoreboard would enhance the experience for spectators and players alike. He also expressed hope that Indian cricket teams would return to Sabina Park in the future, recalling the last visit in 2017.

“I hope today’s ceremony plants the seeds for the return of Indian cricketers to walk into this ground again and to add new chapters to our cricketing history,” he said.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange also welcomed the development, saying the government remains committed to modernising Sabina Park as part of its wider sports development strategy. She noted recent upgrades, including new lighting systems that now allow for day and night Test and T20 matches.

Grange said the latest addition would further strengthen the venue’s capacity and support Jamaica’s long term sporting ambitions.

  India