The Jamaica Observer can confirm that Jamaican stars Andre Russell and Rovman Powell have been selected to play for the Jamaica Kingsmen in this summer’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

While an official announcement isn’t expected until next Friday, the Observer has learnt that Russell and Powell, currently with the Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League, were the first two picks by new owners Kingsmen Sports Enterprise in the draft.

Russell, who won titles with the Jamaica Tallawahs in 2013 and 2016 during an eight-year stint, joins from defending champions Trinbago Knight Riders, where he spent the last four seasons.

Powell departs the Barbados Royals and rejoins the Jamaican franchise as captain after leaving in 2023, having won two titles.

Special draft privileges allowed the Kingsmen to make their first three picks from Jamaican players, limited to one per franchise and free from the right-to-match option, paving the way for the selections of Russell and Powell.

The Observer understands that Jamaican all-rounder Fabian Allen is the third pick, with the Kingsmen unable to select opening batsman Brandon King among their three unrestricted picks. King’s stint with the Royals last season meant the franchise could choose only one of Powell or King, ultimately opting for Powell.

The Kingsmen’s full 17-member squad will have nine senior West Indian players, five overseas players and three players from the West Indies Breakout League last year.

The Jamaica Kingsmen, who open the CPL season on August 7 against the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons in St Vincent, will play four games at Sabina Park in Kingston from August 11 to 18.

– Daniel Blake