India tour of West Indies biggest source of board's income, says JCA president Wilfred Billy

It is no secret that Team India is currently the hottest entity in world cricket. Every nation that plays the sport in any of the three recognized formats wants to host India as it racks up unprecedented money and recognition. 

Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) President Wilfred Billy, while conveying his thanks to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, said that the Island earns the most whenever the 'Men in Blue' tour the Caribbean.

According to Hindustan Times, Billy said, "Whenever India play any match in the Caribbean, a lot of people see those matches between India and West Indies. We make the most money whenever Team India comes here to play, and it's our biggest income stream at Cricket West Indies."

India's first citizen was on a four-day trip to Jamaica, where he gifted 100 cricket kits to the Jamaican Cricket Association to symbolize unity between the two cricketing nations.

Speaking about the kits, Billy said that it would significantly boost their school cricket and expressed his gratitude for the kind gesture. 

"This is a proud moment, for me personally and for the cricket fraternity in Jamaica. As Jamaica Cricket Association, we are indeed happy that this gift is coming from India; it's mega cricket in the world. We will be getting 100 kits, and that's a lot. It has been planned that half of them will be given to the high schools," he explained.

He further pointed out that his cooperation will only help youngsters realize their dreams of playing the sport and eventually feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) like Chris Gayle or Andre Russell.

"Students over here are interested in playing, but it's quite expensive. After this, you may see a lot of young cricketers coming from Jamaica. They will be playing in IPL, as currently, 17 Caribbean players are playing IPL, out of which four are from Jamaica. This will strengthen the bond between India and Jamaica," the JCA President added.

He concluded his conversation by detailing what steps the JCA has taken thus far to groom younger talent.

"We have established a cricket development program at the youth level. We have a lot of young players coming through. In the years to come, many pacers and batters are coming up from Jamaica," Billy concluded.