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West Indies will host Australia in a historic pink-ball Test at Sabina Park, Kingston, this July. The match marks Jamaica’s first-ever day-night Test. The venue is being upgraded with enhanced lighting to meet international standards.

Cricket legend Michael Holding shared his thoughts on the occasion. “I hope it goes off well,” he told Cricbuzz.

Sabina Park Upgrades for the Pink-Ball Test

Officials have confirmed the match, with Sabina Park set to undergo lighting improvements. Daley Redcliffe, head of Kingston Cricket Club (KCC), acknowledged the development.

“The Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) is best placed to comment, but I can confirm a day-night Test this summer.”

JCA CEO Courtney Francis emphasized the significance of the event. He highlighted government support and infrastructure investments.

“This Test is historic for Jamaica and the JCA. The Government, along with JCA and Cricket West Indies (CWI), has invested in floodlight upgrades and a new electronic scoreboard. We are confident in the preparations and excited to host a successful match.”

Sabina Park is co-managed by Sabina Park Holdings, JCA, and KCC. The Jamaican government has assured financial support. Minister of Sport Olivia Grange confirmed funding through the Sports Development Foundation.

Second Day-Night Test in the Caribbean

This will be only the second pink-ball Test in the Caribbean. The first was in 2018 when West Indies played Sri Lanka in Barbados. Sri Lanka won that match by four wickets.

Global Pink-Ball Test Trend

Since 2015, 23 day-night Tests have taken place worldwide. Australia has hosted 13, while India has staged three. New Zealand, UAE (Pakistan), England, South Africa, and the West Indies have each hosted at least one.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remains cautious about pink-ball Tests. They believe the format leads to shorter matches. However, day-night Tests continue to grow in popularity.

With the West Indies vs. Australia Test approaching, Sabina Park is preparing for an exciting cricketing spectacle under lights.