Dear Sir,

We may be witnessing a cultural shift with St George’s Cricket Club regardless of how the game turns out on the field.

It has been said that St George’s previously named their team late to keep people at the bar — to make money. However, in recent years we have seen a shift in how they are conducting their business as far as the timing of announcing their team.

It is a step, a small step, but one that should not be overlooked.

The bar cannot and must not be the highlight of one of our most prized holidays. In fact, it should not be the main stream of revenue for any of our “community” clubs throughout the island.

St George’s should be commended for how it is quietly trying to change a culture so deeply rooted in our society that it has become our norm. This is a small example of how cultures can shift for the good. Time will tell as it relates to improvement in other aspects of the club and the greater community. But it is clear that the focus has shifted and long may it continue.

The bar does not define us, nor should it reflect us.

In contrast, Somerset under the banner of dominance and development may be the standard at least in the way they approach Cup Match. First-year head coach Janeiro Tucker was very direct in speaking about the behaviour of players who have an interest in representing the club in the Annual Classic.

It is clear that neither talent, past performance, nor ties to the club will guarantee anyone a place with the champions — and it shouldn’t. With an embarrassment of riches at their disposal, the club are happy to dig their heels in to ensure that they can choose a team that everyone can be proud of.

No matter who anyone supports, I’m sure we would all agree that not only is Somerset’s approach to Cup Match admirable, but it could be the catalyst to the changes needed towards improving our community beyond the Annual Classic and sport in general.

Happy Emancipation Day, happy Mary Prince Day, and happy Cup Match 2025.

JAMEL HARDTMAN

Pembroke