Caribbean Premier League Explained
A guide to the CPL — the Caribbean's premier T20 franchise competition — covering its six teams, format, history, and place in the global T20 calendar.
What Is the Caribbean Premier League?
The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is the leading franchise T20 competition in the West Indies, run by Cricket West Indies and a private promoter. Launched in 2013, it features six island-based franchises and runs from August to October — the northern-hemisphere off-season — making it accessible for overseas players not on international duty.
The Six Teams
- Barbados Royals (Bridgetown, Barbados)
- Guyana Amazon Warriors (Providence, Guyana)
- Jamaica Tallawahs (Kingston, Jamaica)
- St Kitts and Nevis Patriots (Basseterre, St Kitts)
- St Lucia Kings (Gros Islet, St Lucia)
- Trinbago Knight Riders (Port of Spain, Trinidad)
Format
The six teams play in a double round-robin group stage before a playoff series. The top four from the group stage qualify for the playoffs: a Qualifying final (1 vs 2), an Eliminator (3 vs 4), a second Qualifier, and the CPL Final. The competition uses standard T20 playing conditions — six-ball overs, 20 overs per innings.
History and Success
Trinbago Knight Riders (affiliated with Kolkata Knight Riders of the IPL) have been the most successful franchise, winning multiple CPL titles. Guyana Amazon Warriors have been perennial contenders, often reaching the final without winning. The CPL has produced a number of top West Indies players who rose through CPL performances before being selected for the national T20 side.
International Stars
The CPL runs during August–October, after the English county season and before the Indian domestic season. This timing attracts leading South Asian, Australian, and English T20 players who are between international commitments. Chris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, and Andre Russell built their global T20 reputations through CPL cricket.
Frequently asked questions
When does the CPL season take place?
The CPL runs from August to October each year, making it one of the last major T20 leagues of the global calendar year before the Indian domestic season begins.
Which team has won the CPL the most times?
Trinbago Knight Riders hold the record for most CPL titles, with multiple championships. Jamaica Tallawahs are the only other franchise with more than one title.
Is the CPL broadcast internationally?
Yes — the CPL is broadcast in the Caribbean on SportsMax and ESPN Caribbean, with international coverage in South Asia, the UK, and Australia through various streaming and broadcast partners.