Kingston, Jamaica – September 2025 — The Kingston Wharves U15 Cricket Competition has been reformatted this year to identify the best young cricketers earlier in the development cycle, while still maintaining the same number of preliminary matches. The new structure aims to better prepare players for next year’s regional competition and improve results through longer, more targeted team preparation.
Oneil Cruickshank, cricket operations manager at the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), explained the rationale behind the changes:
“It’s tinkered with and we’re trying to get it right and we’re also responding to things that are happening around us. We started out having the competition with an inter-parish champion. Now, we’re returning to the years when we had an inter-parish first phase, then county selectors would pick a team for the county. Those youngsters then compete for the Kingston Wharves Trophy. With the three counties, we’ve added a development team. Our intent is to identify the boys earlier, not just for the next cycle of regional tournaments but for two years down the road.”
Cruickshank also highlighted a new partnership with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) as part of a pilot program in the Surrey Region:
“Every non-match day, the youngsters journey to the JDF for non-cricket sessions focused on developing skills beyond cricket. This partnership is fantastic for building the boys’ character and discipline outside of their natural talent as cricketers.”
Captain Marlon Saunders of the JDF detailed their contribution:
“We started a summer camp in partnership with Kingston Wharves to influence youth through cricket and the disciplines of the JDF. Our program includes mentorship sessions with counselors and senior personnel to help these individuals chart their character and posture themselves not just as sportsmen, but as well-rounded individuals.”
Mark Williams, CEO of Kingston Wharves, emphasized the company’s commitment:
“It’s our privilege to sponsor this competition for the 34th year. Our goal is to be part of Jamaica’s development. This path through cricket builds character, commitment, and a sense of excellence in young people — it’s more than just cricket.”
Fitz Harris, First Vice President of the JCA, welcomed the continued support:
“This is a critical juncture for cricket. While the sport is growing globally, we face challenges locally. Jamaica, as the largest cricket-playing island in the Caribbean, must set the pace. This competition allows us to plant a firm foundation in the rebuilding of our sport.”
The competition is now in its final week, culminating with the final match between Middlesex and Surrey at the Ultimate Cricket Ground in St. Ann on Friday.
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