By Zainab Shafiq 
Sabina Park, the great cricket ground in Kingston, may soon experience history as plans gather momentum to stage its first day-night Test match in Jamaica. With Australia touring the Caribbean in July, the third and final game of the series has been targeted for this milestone event—if urgent floodlight improvements are finished on schedule.
CWI prepares for first day-night Test in Jamaica
Cricket West Indies (CWI) is also looking to have Sabina Park ready to become a facility to host pink-ball cricket in lights. The game’s status remains in question because of continuing concerns regarding the aged lighting setup, though. Despite never having hosted a day-night international owing to its lack of floodlights, officials hope for renovations to be finished prior to Australia’s arrival.
The series, which begins with classic red-ball Tests in Barbados and Grenada, has already witnessed ticket sales opening. While Cricket Australia has supported the notion of playing a day-night game, the final nod will depend on successful upgrades and attaining international standards. An Australian delegation is scheduled to visit the venue this month to review the progress.
CWI representative Chris Dehring is optimistic about hosting a historic event. “Australia has signed off on the idea, but all depends on the new lighting installation being completed on time and to specification,” Dehring said at a media briefing. He added: “We are determined to make it happen with the help of the Jamaica Cricket Association and government.”
Jamaica Cricket optimistic for West Indies’ second-ever day-night game at Sabrina park, Jamaica
Jamaica Cricket Association President Dr. Donovan Bennett had earlier stated that the floodlight installation had been delayed. Originally planned to be done by January, logistical issues and material sourcing delays extended the deadline. “We needed to make sure the lights were compatible with our current infrastructure,” Bennett said. “Though cheaper options existed, they were a structural concern because of weight and wind loads.”
Should the project be completed in time, the Sabina Park Test will mark the second-ever day-night match hosted by the West Indies, following their 2018 fixture against Sri Lanka in Barbados.
Australia, who have dominated pink-ball Tests with 12 victories in 13 at home, were beaten for the first time in the format last year when West Indies pulled off a shock at the Gabba, inspired by a heroic display from Shamar Joseph. With both sides about to start their 2025-2027 World Test Championship campaigns, a day-night extravaganza in Jamaica might write an exciting new page in their rivalry.
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