‘It was a privilege’ - CPL CEO pleased to welcome Bravo, Bishop to first class of Hall of Fame

The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) on Tuesday confirmed its inaugural Hall of Fame class, inducting Dwayne Bravo and Ian Bishop at a gala dinner held at the Hilton Barbados.

Bravo received the newly created Sir Garry Sobers Award as the tournament’s first playing inductee. The award was presented by Daniel Sobers on behalf of the Sobers family.

The Sir Garry Sobers Award, the centrepiece honour of the CPL Hall of Fame, is named after the West Indies icon widely regarded as the finest all-rounder the game has produced. The Sobers family granted the CPL permission to attach his name to the trophy.

One of the most decorated performers in CPL history, Bravo retires from playing with 129 wickets and five CPL titles with Trinbago Knight Riders. He added a sixth title as head coach in 2025.

Bishop was inducted in the non-playing category, recognising a broadcasting career that has been woven into the CPL story since the tournament’s launch in 2013.

His commentary has helped bring the ‘Biggest Party in Sport’ to fans across the Caribbean and around the world, and Tuesday’s honour reflected his standing as one of cricket’s most respected voices.

Pete Russell, CEO of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League said: “Dwayne and Ian represent everything this Hall of Fame was created to celebrate. Their contribution to this competition, on the field and behind the microphone, has helped build CPL into the phenomenon it is today, and it was a privilege to welcome them into this inaugural class.”

Tuesday’s gala also supported the Sir Clive Lloyd Healthcare Foundation’s prostate-cancer awareness initiatives.

Two new names will be added to the CPL Hall of Fame each year. As the Republic Bank CPL continues to expand its footprint across the region, the Hall of Fame stands as a lasting tribute to the players and personalities who have helped shape one of the world’s premier Twenty20 leagues.