Opener Johnson Charles lashed seven fours and eight sixes to help set up St. Lucia Kings for a commanding 80-run victory over Trinbago Knight Riders in today’s Republic Bank CPL fixture. Sent into bat at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Republic Day in Trinidad and Tobago, the kings spoiled the festivities by posting a massive 218-6, led by Player of the Match Charles who hit 89 off just 40 balls. Charles shared in a 145-run opening partnership with Captain Faf Du Plessis, who made 59 off 43 deliveries. Kieron Pollard snapped up 4-38. In reply TKR were bowled out for 138 in 17.5 overs, as Dwayne Bravo retired out from an apparent groin injury, to end the innings. Noor Ahmad finished with 3-39 and David Wiese 2-27. The Kings cement their place at the top of the standings on 14 points four clear of the other three contenders. TKR are 4th on 10 points tied with Guyana Amazon Warriors and Barbados Royals, but with an inferior net run rate. The action continues tomorrow at Providence in Guyana, with third-place Royals up against second place Warriors at 7 p.m. live on MCTV’s Sportsmax channel 310, and tape delayed on TV8 from 8:03 p.m. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

The Ministry of Housing is working to identify new building designs and innovative building technologies as it seeks to upgrade housing schemes across Barbados. Minister of Housing Dwight Sutherland says they have committed to providing 2000 housing solutions yearly between the public and private sector. He was speaking at the Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference. Among the new technology being considered is sugarcrete, which is sugarcane bagasse mixed with sand mineral binders to produce bricks that have a carbon footprint six times smaller than traditional bricks. Furthermore, officials are seeking to integrate the autoclaved aerated concrete products into the island’s building design and construction practices, with a view to reducing indoor air quality issues. Meanwhile, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education Sandra Husbands says rebuilding the built environment will provide the world with trillions of dollars in gross domestic product.

The Barbados Tourism Marketing Incorporated is working to boost airlift from European and other emerging markets. The announcement from Chief Executive Officer Andrea Franklin comes after recent news of a significant increase in airlift from the US market. Ms. Franklin says BTMI teams are working to build capacity into Barbados. She was a guest on a special Tourism Week edition of Mornin’ Barbados. Meanwhile, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association, Javon Griffith suggests the expansion into more markets and key sectors will ensure the island is a year-round destination.