The Barbados Royals are making a comeback as the Barbados Tridents just in time for CPL 2026, bringing back one of the original identities from the Caribbean Premier League. The team is reviving the Tridents name, which they proudly wore during the first eight seasons of the CPL before switching to the Royals in 2021. Along with the name change, the team will also don Barbados’ iconic blue-and-yellow national colors, moving away from the pink jersey that has been in use recently. This rebranding will apply to both the men’s and women’s teams, with the women’s squad also embracing the Tridents identity after participating in the Women’s CPL since its inception in 2022.
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley expressed that bringing back the Barbados Tridents name symbolizes the nation’s confidence, pride, and aspirations for the future, as she said, “As Barbados marks its 60th year of Independence, the One Barbados partnership encapsulates everything that we, as a young nation, have accomplished thus far. The return to the Barbados Tridents reflects our confidence, our pride and our ambition as a nation, as we begin to chart the path towards our next 60 years.ā
From Title Wins to a Fresh Start in CPL 2026 for Barbados Tridents
The ownership setup is set to stay pretty much the same, even with the new branding. Royals Sports Group will still hold the majority stake and manage the day-to-day operations, while the Barbados government is anticipated to step in as a minority co-investor once all the necessary approvals are in place. Plus, during the CPL season, the franchise will host a “Pink Promise” charity match to support various charitable initiatives across Barbados.
Since joining the CPL in 2013, Barbados has had its share of thrilling victories and tough seasons. Under Kieron Pollard’s leadership, they made it to the semifinals in their first season, clinching their first CPL title in 2014 and finishing as runners-up in 2015. After a few disappointing group-stage exits from 2016 to 2018, Jason Holder led the team to their second title in 2019. The franchise rebranded as Barbados Royals in 2021, with David Miller steering them to the finals in 2022. Rovman Powell took over as captain in 2023, although the team faced challenges and ended up at the bottom of the standings in the 2025 season.
One of the franchise’s biggest assets has been its talented all-rounders. Pollard, Holder, and Kyle Mayers have consistently provided a solid balance with both bat and ball, and Kensington Oval has often served as a formidable home ground. However, the team has struggled with inconsistency and a shaky top order, which has hindered their progress. Pollard stands as the franchise’s all-time leading run-scorer, Holder holds the record for the most wickets, Quinton de Kock boasts the highest individual score of 115, and Hayden Walsh Jr. ‘s 22 wickets were crucial in their 2019 championship run. All in all, the franchise has bagged two CPL titles and has been runners-up twice.
