The Bermuda Smash Invitational may be built around cricket, but the event has evolved into something much bigger than what happens on the pitch.

What started as an effort to modernise cricket entertainment locally has grown into one of the island’s signature early summer events, blending elite cricket with music, food, entertainment and social energy in a way that feels distinctly Bermudian.

For founder Jason Sukdeo, that was always the vision.

“The Bermuda Smash Invitational feels different from a traditional cricket event because it was intentionally designed to blend elite cricket with Bermuda’s entertainment and social culture.

“From the beginning, the vision was never just about what happens on the pitch, it was about creating an atmosphere that feels exciting, modern and uniquely Bermudian.”

That atmosphere has helped position the Invitational as part of Bermuda’s summer rhythm.

“People now associate it with the official start of summer energy on the island,” Mr Sukdeo says. “Many people now look forward to it the same way they look forward to Cup Match season or the first major summer fete.”

Held at the National Sports Centre, the event draws a crowd that extends far beyond traditional cricket supporters.

“Of course we have dedicated cricket supporters who come to follow the matches and players closely,” he says, “but we also attract young professionals, families, tourists, corporate groups, and people who may not even normally attend cricket matches.”

That broader appeal is intentional.

“One of the biggest successes of the event has been making cricket feel accessible and exciting to a wider audience while still respecting the core fans of the sport.”

Once the event gets under way, Mr Sukdeo says the atmosphere shifts quickly.

“You hear music throughout the venue, fans cheering big moments, kids running around with cricket bats, and groups of friends and families enjoying the day together.

“There’s a real mix of excitement and high energy that can be felt all throughout the grounds.”

The evening matches, in particular, bring a different energy.

“The energy shifts into almost a party atmosphere with lights, music, entertainment breaks and packed crowd sections.”

And he says that combination of cricket and entertainment is what keeps people returning year after year.

“The mix of cricket, entertainment, music, food and social energy is honestly what makes the Bermuda Smash Invitational what it is. Cricket may be the foundation, but the full experience is what keeps people coming back.”

Mr Sukdeo believes that’s especially important in Bermuda during the summer months, when people are actively looking for shared outdoor experiences.

“Bermuda is a very social and community-oriented island. People love experiences that bring everyone together outdoors with music, food, entertainment and sport all in one place.”

At the same time, cricket still carries deep cultural significance locally.

“Cricket continues to hold a very special place in Bermuda’s identity because it represents far more than just sport. It is tied to community, tradition, family and some of the island’s most important cultural moments.”

The Invitational, he says, helps bridge that tradition with a newer generation of fans by presenting the sport in a faster, more energetic format.

One moment that always stands out to him is finals day.

“There’s a different level of intensity and excitement in the air. Seeing the grounds full, hearing the crowd react to big plays, watching local players share the field with international talent, and seeing children lining the boundaries hoping to meet players afterwards really reminds you of the impact the event is having.”

“It becomes bigger than cricket at that point, it feels like a true community event.”

As the Invitational continues to grow, Mr Sukdeo says the goal remains the same: creating an experience that people remember long after the final match.

“We hope people leave the Bermuda Smash Invitational feeling proud, energised and excited about the future of cricket and entertainment in Bermuda. Ultimately, we want the event to create memories that people talk about long after the final match ends.”