Premier the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, was joined by the Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, MP, and the Minister of Health and area MP for Somerset, the Hon. Kim Wilson, JP, MP, today as the Government of Bermuda presented a cheque for $70,000 to Somerset Cricket Club in support of the 2026 Annual Cup Match Classic.
The annual contribution, which has been made to the host club each year since 2018, assists with preparations for staging the two-day holiday classic. As the hosting responsibilities alternate between the island’s two historic clubs, Somerset Cricket Club is this year’s recipient, following last year’s presentation to St. George’s Cricket Club.
Premier the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, said the Government remains proud to support an event that represents one of the defining traditions of Bermuda’s national calendar.
“Cup Match is more than cricket. It is our Emancipation holiday, a time to remember that freedom was not given. It was a holiday that was rightfully demanded by the descendants of those who experienced enslavement, and today we honour that legacy through our Cup Match celebrations. I acknowledge the Government’s continued support of Somerset Cricket Club as it prepares to host this year’s Cup Match Classic. I also wish to recognize the President of Somerset Cricket Club, along with the club’s members and volunteers, for their efforts in preparing for the holiday. In addition, I thank the Bermuda Police Service, Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service, and the Royal Bermuda Regiment for their service throughout the Cup Match holiday and for helping to keep our community safe.
“I wish both Somerset Cricket Club and St. George’s Cricket Club every success for what promises to be another outstanding Cup Match Classic.”
Minister Owen Darrell said, “Cup Match is one of Bermuda’s most cherished traditions, bringing together our love of sport, culture and community while celebrating an important chapter in our history. The Government is pleased to support Somerset Cricket Club as it prepares to host this year’s Classic, and I commend the executive, members and volunteers whose hard work ensures this event continues to be a source of pride for Bermuda. We look forward to another memorable Cup Match that showcases the very best of our island.”
Richard Scott, President of Somerset Cricket Club said, “Cup match - one of Bermuda’s Premier sports events; yet one which has its foundation built on one of life’s greatest historical stories celebrating and commemorating - Emancipation, which highlights the incomparable abolitionist Mary Prince.
“We at Somerset Cricket Club, welcome each of you to Bermuda’s Homecoming - where all walks of life converge to celebrate freedom through the game Cup Match - Somerset Cricket Club vs St George’s Cricket Club. It’s Cup Match time in Bermuda…”
The Government looks forward to another outstanding Cup Match Classic that honours Bermuda’s rich heritage, strengthens community spirit, and celebrates one of the island’s most treasured traditions.
