The British Virgin Islands Cricket Association (BVICA) has unveiled its squad for the upcoming USVI President’s Cup Cricket Tournament in St. Thomas, USVI. The team will be led by Captain Imran Smith of Falcons CC, with Reno Mettelholzer of Royal Knights CC serving as Vice Captain.

The full squad includes Imran Smith (Captain), Reno Mettelholzer (Vice Captain), Joel Williams, Julian St. Clair, Collis Frazer, DonPaul Chrisnanand, Richard Francis, Shelan Isidore, Johann Lezana, Ameri Hinds, Vaden Walker, Juenick Mingo, and Jerome Morris. Elvis Richards has been appointed as Team Manager.

In an interview with BVICA Public Relations Officer Alison Scatliffe, Captain Imran Smith expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to lead the team. “I appreciate the fact that they entrusted me with the leadership role. It’s a pleasure representing the BVI and leading a bunch of talented guys,” Smith said.

On the team’s preparation, Smith shared that players have been training with their respective clubs and began focused collective sessions two weeks before the tournament. The training has centered around strategic play and a solid understanding of the basic rules to ensure a cohesive team performance.

When discussing his approach to leadership, Smith stressed the importance of balancing tactical strategies with motivation, while fostering a strong team bond and adaptability in various game situations.

Regarding the competition, Smith acknowledged a level of familiarity with some players from St. Thomas through local competitions. However, he cautioned against underestimating any team. “I know the BVI team has a very good chance of becoming winners. We just have to go out there and put what we practiced into play,” he remarked confidently.

Smith also addressed fans who would be unable to attend the matches, encouraging them to support the team in any way possible, and expressed optimism about the future of cricket in the BVI.

PHOTO: Imran Smith

Celebrated Saint Martin entertainer and master of ceremonies Ricky “DaPhox” Bertie will host The Ultimate Bake-Off: Caribbean Baking Awards on Friday, February 21,  at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Tortola.

Bertie, a dominant figure in the region’s cultural and music scene, is no stranger to commanding an audience. His dynamic stage presence, quick wit, and deep-rooted passion for Caribbean traditions make him the perfect fit for an event that blends competition with festivity. Known for his success in calypso, soca, and event hosting, Bertie is expected to bring an energy that matches the intensity of the baking showdown.

Bertie’s journey to the stage began in Saint Martin, where he carved a name for himself as a Junior Calypso King before taking his talent to the senior levels. Over the years, he dominated calypso and road march competitions on both the French and Dutch sides of the island, an extraordinary achievement in Caribbean music history. His ability to captivate audiences with socially conscious lyrics and compelling performances made him a household name.

His career expanded beyond calypso into soca, where he became the first-ever Soca Rumble champion in Saint Martin. He also led two of the island’s top bands—Creole Stars and Impakt Band—solidifying his reputation as a versatile and influential artist.

But it’s his skills as a master of ceremonies that have made Bertie a regional icon. His magnetic personality and seamless ability to connect with crowds have led him to host high-profile events across Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saba, Statia, and the renowned World Creole Music Festival. Now, he sets his sights on Tortola, where he will take the Caribbean Baking Awards to new heights.

This year’s edition of the Caribbean Baking Awards promises fierce competition, with top bakers from across the region battling for the coveted title. Trinidad and Tobago will return with powerhouse teams “Flavor Masters Possé,” “Trini Cakes Revellers,” and “Flour Power.” Meanwhile, last year’s standout, Dominica’s “Donmnik Dou,” aims to reclaim their glory, with defending champion Akim Ismael looking to impress the judges once more.

Other competitors include Jamaica’s “Sweet Success” and “The Dynamic Duo,” Antigua and Barbuda’s “The Glass Jar” and “Sweet Art 268,” Guyana’s “Sweet Secrets,” Barbados’ “Bimstars,” and Saint Lucia’s “Fruit Boss.” The British Virgin Islands will be well represented by “Bombshell,” while the U.S. Virgin Islands’ “Hibiscus Sweets” is gearing up for a strong showing.

With the stakes high and the flavors even bolder, the Caribbean Baking Awards is shaping up to be an unforgettable showcase of talent, culture, and culinary mastery.

With Ricky “DaPhox” Bertie at the helm, attendees can expect an evening filled with laughter, excitement, and suspense as the best bakers in the Caribbean go head-to-head. Whether you’re a fan of the art of baking, a lover of Caribbean culture, or just looking for a great time, this is one event that promises to deliver.

Governor Daniel Pruce is inviting public feedback on the ongoing Commission of Inquiry (COI) reforms, with responses set to inform discussions with Stephen Doughty, the UK’s Overseas Territories Minister.

A public survey has been launched, along with a dedicated email address, to gather input on how the reforms have impacted governance in the Virgin Islands. The initiative follows Minister Doughty’s visit to the territory in November 2024, during which he requested that the Governor collect residents’ views ahead of the next phase of the reform process.

“This is an important opportunity for people to comment on the COI reforms,” Governor Pruce said. “I encourage everyone to share their views and experiences.”

The deadline for submissions is March 2, 2025. Residents can participate by completing the survey at SmartSurvey or by submitting general comments via email to bvicoi@fcdo.gov.uk.

Officials have assured that all feedback will be handled confidentially and anonymously.

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