Grange ‘surprised, disappointed’ by Bennett’s cricket funding remarks

MINISTER OF Sport Olivia Grange says she is surprised and extremely disappointed by comments from Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) President, Dr Donovan Bennett, concerning the Government’s $100 million commitment to cricket development.

“I am not only disappointed, but I’m surprised that he would speak that way based on the fact that we have had a clear understanding and we have been working so well together,” Grange said.

Disagreement

Her response follows Bennett’s revelation that the JCA had received approximately $14 million of the pledged funds, with a disagreement emerging over the disbursement of the remaining allocation.

The JCA president, on Thursday, said in an interview with TVJ Sports, “What the [sports] ministry is now saying is that the money to install the lights and other things was a part of the programme, which it was not.”

However, Grange insisted the commitment, announced in 2023, was never intended exclusively for the association.

“We at no time made a commitment to give the Jamaica Cricket Association $100 million,” she declared.

The minister explained that the Government committed to investing the sum in cricket development over three years, in consultation with the JCA.

She outlined direct assistance totalling $14.2 million, including $5 million for an Under-13 cricket programme, $2.4 million for a youth tournament budget shortfall and $6.8 million for the senior women’s team.

Funds repurposed

Grange also confirmed that funds were repurposed to finance the $75 million lighting upgrade at Sabina Park, describing the expenditure as unplanned.

“I did indicate to the President in a meeting that we had, although the 100 million was announced and was for development, we now would have to look at how we’re going to treat that allocation,” she explained.

Bennett had previously indicated that the JCA was advised the development allocation could not be used to assist with infrastructural improvements at the venue.

According to Grange, $40 million was allocated in the 2024-25 financial year, followed by $30 million in 2025-26, with the final $30 million expected in 2026-27.

She said future funding would support youth cricket, national team preparation and infrastructure, including school-based facilities.

“I’m really alarmed that this matter continues to be a bone of contention,” Grange added.