Antigua’s Young Cricketers Take on the UK

St. John’s, Antigua…7th April 2025….Five of Antigua and Barbuda’s most promising young cricketers are set to represent the twin-island nation in the United Kingdom this year as part of the Antigua Exchange Programme (AEP). From April to September, Ozan Williams, Jared Jno Baptiste, Michael Greaves, Xaveek Toppin, and Malique Walsh will engage in competitive, club-level cricket across England, gaining invaluable experience in new playing conditions and refining their skills under the guidance of experienced coaches.

In addition, two exceptional student-athletes — Dante Odlum of Antigua Grammar School and Ondre Peters of Princess Margaret School — have been awarded a prestigious seven-week academic and cricket scholarship to the esteemed Harrow School, running from April to June. During their time at Harrow, the boys will participate fully in the school’s academic programme while continuing their cricket development at one of the UK’s premier institutions.

On Friday, April 4th, Minister of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, the Hon. Daryll Matthew, met personally with the scholarship recipients and their parents. The meeting served as both a moment of recognition and encouragement, as the Minister congratulated the students on their achievements and offered words of support as they prepare to embark on this life-changing journey.

The Antigua Exchange Programme, established in 2017 by Keith Williams of the Keyworth Cricket Club in Nottingham, has grown into a transformational initiative thanks to strong support from High Commissioner Karen-Mae Hill, Minister Matthew, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The programme continues to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s cricket pipeline by providing young athletes with exposure to international competition and coaching, while also fostering cultural exchange.

To date, 23 cricketers — including 2 female athletes — have benefitted from the programme, with Essan Warner, one of the first participants, now serving as the official AEP Ambassador. Warner plays a pivotal role in player selection and orientation, helping athletes prepare for the physical and cultural transition to UK cricket.

The programme also includes a reciprocal element. Players from UK clubs, particularly Keyworth CC, have journeyed to Antigua to participate in local matches, adding an enriching international perspective to the cricketing experience for both host and visiting players.

The 2025 programme is made even more remarkable with the formal inclusion of Harrow School as an academic partner. Following a successful 2023 tour during which Antigua and Barbuda’s Under-19 team was hosted at the school, Harrow expressed interest in developing a long-term partnership with Antigua and Barbuda.

“This programme not only nurtures our young athletes but also plants the seeds of ambition, discipline, and international excellence,” said Minister Matthew. “We are proud of our partnership with clubs and institutions in the UK and remain committed to empowering our youth through sport and education.”

The Antigua Exchange Programme and the new Harrow scholarship continue to set a benchmark for how strategic international collaboration can uplift youth, expand horizons, and build national pride through sport.