Babonneau cricket is on the rise. The men’s team were Prime Minister’s Cup champions and Premier Two-Day Cup semifinalists after finishing in the group stages of both competitions last year. The Under-13 team also reached the final of the inaugural Under-13 Cricket competition.
One of the key contributors to Babonneau’s successes in 2025 was head coach Jervaughn Charles. Charles, an educator by profession, said a “change of mindset” marked the most significant improvement in the area’s cricket’s rise.
“In recent years, we have always competed inconsistently,” he told St. Lucia Times in an exclusive interview. “However, when we have gone all the way, we seem to choke in key moments. For the year 2025, our aim was to perform at the highest level in all formats against all opposition. Self-belief as a team was lacking, and, therefore, players needed motivation.”
Babonneau’s training structure also evolved significantly compared to last season. Coach Charles highlighted training in the area as “dicey” prior to this year, with inclement weather playing a big role in this regard. While the team cannot control the weather, they have chosen to show more intent during the periods when they do have the opportunity to practice.
“When training does occur, players train with more purpose knowing their roles on the team,” Charles said. “Training five days a week plus practice matches has always been the bedrock of Babonneau cricket. Coaches ensure that high standards in training and matches are held.”
The implementation of the inaugural “Clash of the Leatherbacks” Youth Tournament, a seven-match series featuring three teams (Snapping Strikers, Hawksbill Hitters and Terrapin Thumpers), skill-based competition where points are awarded through batting, bowling and fielding efforts in the group stage, significantly developed the young prospects in the league, bolstering their futures in the process.
“This tournament was a huge success as improvements in the youth were very noticeable. After such a tournament, strengths and weaknesses were noted and will be used for the improvement plan for 2026,” the head coach said.
Charles notes that none of this could have been achieved without the assistance of sponsors, including the National Lotteries Authority, Hot Ink Printing, B.T.S.M (Building Technical and Services Management), Golden Eggs, and former MP for Babonneau Virginia Albert Poyotte.
While Babonneau, like many other areas on the island, faces infrastructural hurdles, players and coaches remain committed to developing the cricket programmes into 2026 and beyond.
Looking ahead, Babonneau Cricket is prioritising increased participation across all age groups, improved facilities, and laying the foundation for women’s cricket in Babonneau to build on this year’s progress.
