Hobson: Jamaica not missing out

Dorothy Hobson, chairperson of Jamaica Women's cricket selection panel, does not think Jamaica is missing out on anything significant after the island did not get the opportunity to host a game in the current International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup tournament in the Caribbean.

Hobson noted that Jamaica was unable to host a game due to financial reasons and although disappointed local fans did not get to support their female cricketers and see them live in action, she says the onus is on West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and regional cricket bodies to maximise any possible benefits the region can obtain from this tournament.

"I'm delighted the tournament is in the Caribbean but very disappointed Jamaica did not get a game. But money was the bottom line, you make a bid, you have to finance it.

"All the time we get these tournaments and say it will be good for the development of cricket. But if they are using it (this 2018 tournament) as a catalyst I would have to see what comes after the tournament is finished," she said.

But apart from not getting to see their team live, Hobson does not believe Jamaica is missing out on any important opportunities.

"We are watching the live feed and interacting with the players on social media, so it's all right. I watch it in my living room and I have the best seat and everybody has TV and cable. Our (West Indies) ladies are also involved because I have heard a few (regional) female announcers. Plus some of our (Jamaican) ladies like Stafanie Taylor, the captain, are in the team, so whatever they learn they will be able to pass it on," she added.

However, she believes any benefits to be derived from the tournament will depend on the various cricket associations and the WICB.

"They have had many a plan over the years, which I can testify to, so I would have to see a set of plans that speak positively to the things they want to do. I hope this will be a catalyst to start something for continued development in the various territories, if we do that I would be happy. But the onus would be on the Jamaica board and the other island boards to take this and run with it as soon as possible," Hobson concluded.