Cricket West Indies and Peru Forge a Historic Partnership for Cricket’s Growth

Cricket West Indies and Peru Forge a Historic Partnership for Cricket’s Growth

Strengthening Cricket’s Global Presence: CWI’s Strategic Move

LIMA, Peru – Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Dr. Kishore Shallow, alongside Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) President Keith Joseph, recently embarked on a landmark visit to Lima, Peru. This visit, held from February 21–23, 2025, was a defining moment in the pursuit of international collaboration, reinforcing the potential inclusion of cricket in the 2027 Pan American Games.

Accompanied by influential figures such as Peruvian Olympic Committee (POC) President Renzo Manyari Velazco, former POC President José Quinones González, BMP Sports CEO Dario Barthley, and Cricket Peru Vice President Mohan Vaswani, the delegation worked to explore strategies for boosting cricket's prominence in Peru and across South America.

Expanding Cricket’s Reach in the Americas

For years, cricket has been synonymous with the Caribbean, England, Australia, and South Asia, but the sport is making significant strides in newer regions. South America, an emerging cricketing frontier, is now on the radar of CWI and CANOC, aiming to make cricket more accessible and competitive on the international stage.

CWI’s strategic plan for 2024–2027 prioritizes expansion into untapped markets, and Peru provides an excellent platform for growth. The potential integration of cricket into the Pan Am Games is not just an opportunity for regional teams but also a gateway to securing the sport’s presence at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Cricket’s Infrastructure and Development Initiatives

Infrastructure development is pivotal in cementing cricket’s place in the Pan American sports ecosystem. The discussions between CWI, CANOC, and Peruvian sports authorities revolved around establishing training facilities, enhancing grassroots programs, and implementing exchange initiatives. These steps are essential in ensuring Peru and other participating nations have the necessary resources to compete effectively on the global stage.

CANOC President Keith Joseph underscored the significance of Cricket West Indies’ involvement, stating:

“The impact of West Indies cricket across the globe is well known. Having Cricket West Indies involved in the effort to bring cricket to the Pan Am Games is crucial. This preliminary engagement marks a significant step toward realizing that dream.”

This collaborative vision aims to create a sustainable cricket ecosystem in South America, leveraging expertise from one of the sport’s most dominant regions the Caribbean.

A Vision for the Future: Cricket’s Path to the Olympics

Dr. Shallow echoed Joseph’s sentiments, highlighting that CWI is committed to broadening its international footprint:

“As part of CWI’s strategic plan for 2024–2027, expanding our market and accessing new developmental opportunities are critical priorities. Peru presents excellent prospects, and both parties stand to benefit from collaboration. With the Pan Am Games on the horizon, we are enthusiastic about cricket’s inclusion. CWI is fully committed and prepared to play a key role in bringing this vision to life not just for the Pan Am Games, but also as a stepping stone to the 2028 Olympics.”

The idea of cricket at the Olympics has long been discussed, with the sport’s governing bodies pushing for its return since its last appearance in the 1900 Paris Games. With cricket included in the 2028 Olympics, countries like Peru, with burgeoning cricketing potential, will gain a significant boost.

Strengthening Regional Ties: The Caribbean-South America Connection

This engagement extends beyond cricket it symbolizes a broader Caribbean-South American sports collaboration. By leveraging the success of West Indies cricket, Peru and neighboring nations stand to gain insights, resources, and competitive exposure.

The collaboration between CWI and Peru’s cricketing authorities is more than just a developmental initiative; it is a stepping stone toward making cricket a mainstream sport in South America. With Peru’s growing sports culture and the Caribbean’s deep-rooted cricketing legacy, this partnership could redefine the landscape of cricket in the region.

Looking Ahead: The Road to 2027 and Beyond

The 2027 Pan Am Games represent a crucial checkpoint in cricket’s journey toward Olympic inclusion. If successful, this initiative will provide South American nations with an entry into the global cricketing arena. For Cricket West Indies, this expansion aligns with their broader vision of global engagement and strengthening cricket’s presence worldwide.

As the sport continues to make strides internationally, fostering partnerships such as the one between Cricket West Indies and Peru will be instrumental in shaping cricket’s future in untapped regions. With continued collaboration, investment, and strategic planning, the inclusion of cricket at the 2027 Pan Am Games is within reach, bringing the dream of Olympic cricket one step closer to reality.