Cricket is one of the most beloved sports in Trinidad and Tobago. There is a very intense inter- island rivalry between the Caribbean Nations.
It started in 1869 when Trinidad took on Demerara for two matches, winning one and losing one. Trinidad also participated in the Inter-Colonial Tournament which included Barbados, British Guiana (formerly Demerara), where they played in 28 tournaments that were held in 1891-92 and 1938-39. In the late 1880’s, Tobago was incorporated as a crown colony. T&T played in the Shell Shield which started in 1965-66. They were crowned champions on their fourth occasion in 1969-70 and won the following year. In One Day Cricket, T&T won four titles in eight seasons from 1989-90 to 1996-97 and 2004-2005.
On the other hand, when the islands are not playing against each other, they unite as one nation and represent the West Indies in International cricket. From the likes of Jeffery Stolmeyer in the 1930’s, Sonny Ramadin in the 50’s , Joey Carew in the 60’s, Gus Logie in the 80’s, to Brian Lara in the 90’s and Dwayne Bravo in the 21st century ,Trinidad and Tobago has a rich history of talent when it comes to cricket at home and around the world.
Today, avid cricket fans pack the Queens Park Oval with their coolers, liming partners, a pitch good for batting and an atmosphere full of euphoria, to back their team of choice. Win, lose or draw, it is no secret that Trinis love cricket!
