Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (ABF): CPL History, Squad, Records, Stats, Owners & 2026 Updates
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons: History, Owners, Captains, Squad, Records, Stats & CPL 2026 updates and Predictions.
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (ABF): Introduction
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons are one of the newest franchises in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Although the Falcons officially joined the competition in 2024, the story of CPL cricket in Antigua and Barbuda stretches back to the league’s inaugural season in 2013.
The Falcons represent the return of franchise cricket to Antigua after nearly a decade. Their arrival restored Antigua’s place on the CPL map and brought top-level T20 cricket back to Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
Because the Falcons are a new franchise, their history cannot be separated from the earlier Antigua Hawksbills era, the removal of that franchise in 2015, and the eventual return of an Antigua-based team in 2024.
This guide covers everything about the Falcons, including their origins, ownership, captains, coaches, records, squad history, home ground, domestic structure, achievements, and future outlook.
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons: Quick Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Team Name | Antigua & Barbuda Falcons |
| Short Name | ABF |
| Previous Name | Antigua Hawksbills (2013–2014) |
| League | Caribbean Premier League (CPL) |
| Founded | 2024 |
| Home Ground | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium |
| Current Owners | Worldwide Sports Management Group |
| Owner Representative | Kris Persaud |
| CPL Titles | 0 |
| Country | Antigua and Barbuda |
| Stadium Capacity | 10,000 approximately |
| Notable Coaches | Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Paul Nixon |
Origin of Antigua & Barbuda Falcons
Antigua Hawksbills Era (2013–2014)
When CPL launched in 2013, Antigua was represented by the Antigua Hawksbills, one of the league’s six original franchises. The Hawksbills played at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and were captained by Marlon Samuels. The franchise finished fifth in 2013 and last in 2014. Across two seasons, they won only three matches.
Antigua Hawksbills Captains
Marlon Samuels (2013–2014)
Antigua Hawksbills Coaches
- Sir Vivian Richards (2013)
- Tim Nielsen (2014)
Antigua Hawksbills Records
Most Runs: Marlon Samuels – 468
Most Wickets: Sheldon Cottrell – 18
Removal of Hawksbills (2015)
Ahead of CPL 2015, the Hawksbills franchise was removed and replaced by St Kitts & Nevis Patriots. Antigua lost its CPL franchise and would remain without a team for almost ten years.
CPL Origin and Barbados Tridents’ Entry into the Tournament.
The competition was launched to strengthen T20 cricket in the Caribbean and create a commercially sustainable franchise league.
Barbados Tridents was included as a founding member alongside:
Jamaica Tallawahs Connection
A major turning point occurred after the 2023 CPL season.
The Jamaica Tallawahs franchise exited the competition structure and CPL announced the return of an Antigua-based franchise. Many fans viewed this as Antigua finally reclaiming its place in the tournament.
Birth of Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (2024)
The Falcons were officially launched in February 2024.
The franchise is owned by Worldwide Sports Management Group and businessman Kris Persaud. The team plays home matches at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
Since then, ABF are part of the CPL along with the following teams:
- Saint Lucia Kings (SLK) – formally known as St Lucia Zouks, and St Lucia Stars
- Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR)
- Jamaica Tridents (JT) – formally known as Jamaica Tallawahs
- Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW)
- Barbados Tridents (BT) – formally known as Barbados Royals
- St Kitts & Nevis Patriots (SNP)
ABF: Domestic Cricket Structure
The Falcons draw heavily from:
- Leeward Islands cricket
- Antigua & Barbuda national cricket
- Cricket West Indies development pathways
Many local players progress through:
Youth cricket → Leeward Islands → Regional Cricket → CPL
This structure provides a pathway for Antiguan talent to reach professional cricket.
ABF: Home Ground
Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
Sir Vivian Richards Stadium is the home ground of the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons and one of the most iconic cricket venues in the Caribbean.
Located in North Sound, Antigua, the stadium is named after West Indies legend Sir Vivian Richards.
It has hosted numerous international matches, including games during the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup, and continues to serve as a major venue for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and West Indies cricket.
Stadium Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Stadium | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium |
| Location | North Sound, Antigua and Barbuda |
| Opened | 2007 |
| Capacity | Approximately 10,000 |
| Named After | Sir Vivian Richards |
| International Matches | Tests, ODIs, T20Is, Women’s ODIs and Women’s T20Is |
| Major Tournament | 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup |
| CPL Team | Antigua & Barbuda Falcons |
The stadium has hosted:
- ICC Cricket World Cup 2007
- Women’s ODIs and Women’s T20Is
- CPL Games
- International Matches: Tests, ODIs, T20Is
The stadium officially opened in 2007 and has a standard capacity of around 10,000 spectators.
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (ABF) History
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons officially joined the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) in 2024, marking the return of franchise cricket to Antigua after nearly a decade. Although the Falcons are a new team, Antigua’s CPL journey began in 2013 with the Antigua Hawksbills, one of the league’s original six franchises.
Antigua Hawksbills Era (2013–2014)
The Antigua Hawksbills represented Antigua and Barbuda during the first two CPL seasons. Despite featuring several international players, the franchise struggled on the field and failed to qualify for the playoffs in either season.
- Original CPL franchise in 2013
- Played home matches at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
- Finished fifth in 2013
- Finished sixth in 2014
- Won only three matches across two seasons
Following the 2014 season, the Hawksbills franchise was discontinued as part of the league’s restructuring.
No Antigua Franchise (2015–2023)
From 2015 onwards, Antigua did not have a home franchise after the Antigua Hawksbills were replaced by the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots. Despite hosting CPL matches regularly, Antigua remained without its own representative team for almost ten years.
Return of Antigua Cricket (2024–Present)
In December 2023, CPL announced the return of an Antigua-based franchise. The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons were officially unveiled in February 2024, bringing professional franchise cricket back to the island.
The Falcons now represent a new era for cricket in Antigua and Barbuda, combining experienced international players with emerging Caribbean talent while aiming to build a successful long-term franchise.
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (ABF) Ownership
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons are owned by Worldwide Sports Management Group (WSMG), led by businessman Kris Persaud. The ownership group played an important role in bringing Caribbean Premier League cricket back to Antigua after nearly a decade without a local franchise.
The Falcons replaced the Jamaica Tallawahs ahead of the 2024 CPL season. While the Tallawahs exited the competition, the Falcons were launched as a completely new franchise with a new identity, logo, home base and long-term vision.
- Returned CPL cricket to Antigua after nearly 10 years
- Long-term investment in Antigua & Barbuda cricket
- Focus on developing local Caribbean talent
- Strong mix of international and regional players
- Committed to building a competitive CPL franchise
Ownership Structure
| Role | Information |
|---|---|
| Franchise | Antigua & Barbuda Falcons |
| Owner | Worldwide Sports Management Group (WSMG) |
| Owner Representative | Kris Persaud |
| Founded | 2024 |
| Home Base | Antigua & Barbuda |
| Home Ground | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium |
| Previous Antigua Franchise | Antigua Hawksbills (2013–2014) |
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons Official Team Logo
Final Verdict
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons represent the newest chapter in Antigua’s Caribbean Premier League journey. From the Hawksbills era in 2013 and 2014 to nearly a decade without a franchise and finally the return of CPL cricket in 2024, the story of Antigua cricket is one of resilience and renewal.
While the Falcons are still building their identity, the franchise possesses strong ownership, a world-class venue, and a growing pool of talented players. If the team continues developing its core group and recruits wisely, it has every opportunity to become a future CPL contender.
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons Squad for CPL 2026
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons have officially confirmed Alzarri Joseph and several regional players for CPL 2026.
The complete squad, including the final overseas signings and any remaining selections, will be updated after further announcements from the franchise and the Caribbean Premier League.
Confirmed ABF Players for CPL 2026
| Player | Role | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Alzarri Joseph | Right-arm Fast Bowler | Officially Signed |
| Evin Lewis | Opening Batter | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Fabian Allen | Spin-bowling All-rounder | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Jayden Seales | Right-arm Fast Bowler | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Amir Jangoo | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Shamar Springer | Pace-bowling All-rounder | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Jahmar Hamilton | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Rahkeem Cornwall | Spin-bowling All-rounder | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Anderson Phillip | Right-arm Fast Bowler | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Karima Gore | Batting All-rounder | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Anderson Mahase | Bowler | Confirmed Regional Pick |
| Joshua James | All-rounder | Confirmed Regional Pick |
What the Confirmed Players Bring to ABF
Alzarri Joseph and Jayden Seales give the Falcons two high-quality fast-bowling options. Joseph also brings international experience and a strong connection with Antigua, where he will represent his home franchise for the first time.
Evin Lewis adds power at the top of the order, while Amir Jangoo and Jahmar Hamilton provide wicketkeeping options. Fabian Allen and Rahkeem Cornwall strengthen the spin and all-round departments.
The presence of several local and regional players gives ABF a strong Caribbean core. However, the final balance of the squad will depend on the remaining overseas signings and any additional official selections.
ABF CPL 2026 Expected Overseas Signings
Prediction – Not Official: The Falcons may look for an experienced overseas middle-order batter, a specialist spinner and another pace-bowling option to complete the squad. Players from the 2025 squad should not be treated as confirmed for CPL 2026 unless the franchise officially announces their return.
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (ABF): Captains & Leadership
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons captain for CPL 2026 has not been officially announced. The table below includes the latest verified information and an editorial prediction.
| Captain | Status |
|---|---|
| Imad Wasim | Prediction: Expected CPL 2026 Captain (Official confirmation awaited) |
Antigua Cricket Captains in CPL History (2013–Present)
| Captain | Achievement | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Marlon Samuels | Captained Antigua Hawksbills (2013–2014) | First-ever captain of an Antigua-based CPL franchise and led the team during the league’s inaugural seasons. |
| Chris Green | Captained Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (2024) | Led the newly established Falcons during their inaugural CPL season and helped build the team’s identity. |
| Imad Wasim | Captained Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (2025) | Brought international leadership experience and guided the franchise into its second CPL campaign. |
From Marlon Samuels to Chris Green and Imad Wasim, each captain has played an important role in Antigua’s CPL journey. Their leadership has helped shape the franchise and build a strong foundation for the future.
Antigua Cricket in CPL: Season-by-Season Record
The table below shows the performance of Antigua-based franchises in every Caribbean Premier League season, including the Antigua Hawksbills (2013–2014) and the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (2024–Present).
| Season | Franchise | League Position | Final Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Antigua Hawksbills | 5th of 6 | League Stage |
| 2014 | Antigua Hawksbills | 6th of 6 | League Stage |
| 2015–2023 | No Antigua-based Franchise | — | Did Not Participate |
| 2024 | Antigua & Barbuda Falcons | 5th of 6 | League Stage |
| 2025 | Antigua & Barbuda Falcons | 4th of 6 | Eliminator |
Key Franchise Achievements
- Founded in 2024.
- Returned Antigua to the Caribbean Premier League after nearly ten years without a home franchise.
- Qualified for the playoffs for the first time in 2025.
- Best CPL Finish: Eliminator (2025).
- CPL Titles: 0.
- Home Ground: Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
- Represent the Leeward Islands region in the Caribbean Premier League.
CPL 2026 Fixtures
CPL 2026 fixtures for the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons are updated after the official announcement.
You can also check the detailed ranking of the ABF Team on the CPL 2026 Points Table.
CPL 2026 ABF full schedule (local time zone)
| Match Details | Date | Time | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antigua & Barbuda Falcons vs Guyana Amazon Warriors | 14 Aug | 19:00 Local | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua |
| Antigua & Barbuda Falcons vs Saint Lucia Kings | 17 Aug | 19:00 Local | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua |
| Antigua & Barbuda Falcons vs Jamaica Kingsmen | 20 Aug | 19:00 Local | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua |
| Antigua & Barbuda Falcons vs Trinbago Knight Riders | 22 Aug | 19:00 Local | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua |
| Antigua & Barbuda Falcons vs Barbados Tridents | 25 Aug | 19:00 Local | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua |
| Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Antigua & Barbuda Falcons | 29 Aug | 19:00 Local | Providence Stadium, Guyana |
| Jamaica Kingsmen vs Antigua & Barbuda Falcons | 31 Aug | 19:00 Local | Sabina Park, Jamaica |
| St Kitts & Nevis Patriots vs Antigua & Barbuda Falcons | 2 Sep | 19:00 Local | Warner Park Sporting Complex, Saint Kitts |
| Saint Lucia Kings vs Antigua & Barbuda Falcons | 7 Sep | 19:00 Local | Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, Saint Lucia |
| Trinbago Knight Riders vs Antigua & Barbuda Falcons | 11 Sep | 19:00 Local | Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad |
CPL 2026 Outlook (Prediction)
Prediction (Not Official): After improving from fifth place in 2024 to a playoff appearance in 2025, Antigua & Barbuda Falcons will aim to qualify for the playoffs again in CPL 2026. If they retain their experienced overseas players and strengthen the batting depth, the franchise could emerge as a genuine title contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Antigua & Barbuda Falcons (ABF)?
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons are a professional T20 cricket franchise that represents Antigua and Barbuda in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The team made its CPL debut in 2024.
2. When were Antigua & Barbuda Falcons founded?
The franchise was officially launched in 2024 following the Caribbean Premier League’s decision to bring a team back to Antigua and Barbuda.
3. Who owns Antigua & Barbuda Falcons?
The franchise is owned by Worldwide Sports Management Group (WSMG), led by businessman Kris Persaud.
4. Did Antigua & Barbuda Falcons replace Jamaica Tallawahs?
Yes. The Falcons entered the CPL ahead of the 2024 season after the Jamaica Tallawahs exited the league structure. However, the Falcons are a new franchise with their own identity, branding and home base.
5. Are Antigua & Barbuda Falcons the same team as Antigua Hawksbills?
No. The Antigua Hawksbills competed in the CPL during 2013 and 2014. The Falcons are a separate franchise established in 2024, although both teams represent Antigua and Barbuda.
6. Why were Antigua Hawksbills removed from the CPL?
The Hawksbills struggled both competitively and commercially during their two seasons. Ahead of the 2015 CPL season, the franchise was replaced by St Kitts & Nevis Patriots.
7. Where do Antigua & Barbuda Falcons play their home matches?
The Falcons play their home matches at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua.
8. Who is the captain of Antigua & Barbuda Falcons?
The captain may change from season to season. Fans should refer to the latest official squad announcement before every CPL season.
9. Who is the head coach of Antigua & Barbuda Falcons?
Paul Nixon has been associated with the franchise’s coaching staff in recent CPL seasons.
10. Have Antigua & Barbuda Falcons won the Caribbean Premier League?
No. Since joining the tournament in 2024, the Falcons are still chasing their first CPL championship.
11. Who are some notable players to represent Antigua & Barbuda Falcons?
Players including Imad Wasim, Justin Greaves, Chris Green, Fabian Allen, Fakhar Zaman, Sam Billings and Azmatullah Omarzai have represented the Falcons.
12. What is the connection between Antigua & Barbuda Falcons and Leeward Islands cricket?
The Falcons provide an important pathway for players from Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Leeward Islands to compete in one of the Caribbean’s premier T20 competitions.
13. Can Antigua & Barbuda Falcons qualify for the CPL 2026 playoffs?
Prediction (Not Official): The Falcons have the potential to challenge for a playoff place if they maintain consistency, retain their core players and strengthen key areas during the CPL 2026 draft.
14. What are Antigua & Barbuda Falcons’ biggest strengths and challenges?
The team possesses a good blend of international experience and Caribbean talent. However, building consistency over a full CPL season remains their biggest challenge as a relatively new franchise.
15. Where can I follow Antigua & Barbuda Falcons news, squad updates and CPL 2026 coverage?
You can follow official updates on the CPL official website, detailed statistics on ESPNcricinfo, and complete Antigua & Barbuda Falcons news, squad updates, records and CPL 2026 coverage on Jaypedia.com.