Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Rebels defeated Blenheim by 70 runs when the Phyllis Carter T20 competition commenced on Sunday on the Island of Leguan, Essequibo.

Batting first, Rebels posted 217-9 off their allotted overs at Enterprise. Sultan Ali stroked 89 while Paranoid Roop scored 39. B. Chitbahal grabbed 4-33 and Mahendra Singh 2-40.

Blenheim were bowled out for 147 in 18 overs in reply. Satesh Latchana cracked 38 and Hemraj Sharma 33; Amit Roop claimed 3-30 and Parmanand Roop 2-23.

Maryville and Young Warriors had the settle for one point each after their fixture which was scheduled for 09:30 hrs at the said venue was rained out.

Young Warriors reached 63-4 off nine overs, batting first when the contest was halted. Teams have been divided into two groups with Satro, Rebels and Blenheim in group A and Young Warriors, Maryville and Falcons in group B.

The competition continues on Sunday at Enterprise with Falcons facing Maryville at 09:30 hrs and Blenheim playing Satro at 14:00hrs.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Trinidad & Tobago Newsday article.

Port of Spain, Trinidad - Former West Indies spinners Roger Harper and Rangy Nanan are eager to see Sunil Narine and Devendra Bishoo bowl in tandem during the regional team’s tour to Sri Lanka in October.

Bishoo, who was ICC emerging player of the year in 2011, made a successful return to the West Indies team in the recent homes series against Australia after three years in the international wilderness. 

Narine, the 2012 ICC emerging player of the year, has strangely only played six Tests due to a combination of questionable selection policies, the then Test form of Shane Shillingford (before he was called for chucking), Narine’s own action issues and Windies series clashes with the IPL.

However, playing together for the Guyana Amazon Warriors in this year’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL), they gave a glimpse of what they could do once paired in West Indies colours. 

“The conditions in Sri Lanka typically suit spinners and although the Sri Lankans are good players of spin, if Bishoo and Narine are picked and play together, I certainly think they will be big threats,” stated Harper, who was the leading spinner of the 80s West Indies team.

Nanan, who was widely regarded as one the best spinners in domestic cricket during the heyday of Caribbean cricket dominance featuring a famous proliferation of fast bowlers, reiterated Harper’s beliefs. 

“I definitely am looking forward to seeing them bowl together. 

Watching the current India versus Sri Lanka Test series, we have seen spinners Ravi Ashwin and Rangana Herath play leading roles in the two Test match wins,” said Nanan, who was a national selector and TT CB board member for many years after his retirement in 1991. 

He continued: “They are highly skilled spinners who can make a big difference on those wickets, so I hope the selectors pick them both during the Test series.” “All seemed well also with Sunil in the CPL regarding his action after he was reported, so he should be given a chance to play once selectors have no worries about this,” the 62-year-old Nanan concluded. 

Narine was one the five regular West Indies IPL players that coach Phil Simmons had planned talks with in recent months about their availability to play Test cricket under his tenure. He revealed to Simmons though that he is still concerned about his action in the longer format but is available for one-day and T20s. 

First Published In The Trinidad & Tobago Newsday.

Guyana Chronicle article.

TORONTO, Canada — The Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) first-ever women’s tournament ended in a blaze of glory here last Sunday with Superstars proving superior to opponents Kaisoca Sports Club at the Ashtonbee ground and with the officials and players deeming the inaugural tournament a tremendous success.

Starting as firm favourites and playing before a colourful Sunday crowd, Superstars prevailed by nine wickets, limiting Kaisoca to 85 for seven in their allotted 20 overs, and rushing to victory in 11.1 overs with seasoned campaigner Nicole Samuel unbeaten on a brisk 22 and Abigail Rajkumar 12 not out.

Big-hitting opener Celine McLean had earlier smashed four fours in a top score of 27, the only wicket to fall for the victorious side while Samuel, a former Canadian national player struck one six and three fours. McLean and Rajkumar added 51 for the first wicket.

Kaisoca were earlier indebted to a fine innings of 35 from former Pakistan Under-19 player Mahwish Khan who hit three fours. She, however, failed to get the desired support as only Celia Andre (14) and Kadie Ramnauth (12) were the other players to reach double figures.

Anto Dency (two for 18), Amanjit Virk (two for 26) and Lorraine Kenton (one for six) were the main bowlers for Superstars.

At the impressive presentation which followed, the winning and runner-up teams as well as the Most Valuable Players from both sides were recipient of trophies, compliments of Caribbean Waves Restaurant, which was responsible for putting up the winning trophy and Norman Sue Bakery which sponsored the prizes for the runner-up team and the MVPs.

Ishmeet Sagoo was voted the MVP for Superstars while Khan got the nod for Kaisoca.

SCA president Deo Samaroo lauded the efforts of all those involved in making the tournament a reality and pledged his association’s commitment in the continued development of the game. Samaroo also promised that the SCA will be endeavouring to have more teams compete next year, up from the four that participated this season.

Abigail Rajkumar, Superstars president and Women’s Cricket Development Advocate in Ontario, Canada, was loud in praise of the efforts of the SCA.

Rajkumar reminisced that Superstars women’s team were the first development team to consistently forge forward in developing seniors’ skills and to coaching new players. She boasted that five of the players who participated in the final only started playing hardball cricket last January. She pointed out that she was extremely proud of all of their players since they have proven once again that they are leaders in women cricket development in Canada.

Coach Guyanese Frank Persaud also came in for kudos while he himself expressed satisfaction with the commitment of his charges.

According to Rajkumar, “There are only two options regarding commitment. You’re either in or out. There is no such thing as life in-between. ”

Kaisoca’s George Maharaj, through whose initiative the tournament became a reality, readily admitted that the better team had triumphed but also noted that one of his main players, all-rounder Shuntel Martin, was injured and missed the final. He praised the efforts of his entire team but singled out Khan and Kathryn McNauth for their sterling efforts during the season.

Maharaj disclosed that the SCA was very supportive of his efforts to get the women’s league on track and was confident other teams will join the fray come 2016.

The historic tournament was launched in June amidst much pomp and splendour at the Ashtonbee ground with several prominent officials hailing the ground-breaking and auspicious event.

It was also the culmination of a promise made at the SCA’s annual presentation dinner and dance held last October when the Guyanese-dominated entity disclosed its intention to introduce women’s cricket for the first time in its 34-year-old existence.

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Guyana Chronicle article.

Georgetown, Guyana - A fine all-round performance from former Under-19 cricketer Khemraj Mahadeo led Rose Hall Town Bakewell to a nine-wicket win over Whim in the last round of the Berbice Cricket Board/New Building Society 2015 Second Division cricket tournament.

It was the fourth successive victory for Rose Hall Town Bakewell team as Mahadeo scored his third half-century for the tournament.

Batting first after losing the toss, Whim made 157 all out in 29.3 overs the top scorers being P. Tilkaram 30, Aaron Thakoordeen 23, V.Sookshine 27 and N. Deonarine 17.

Bowling for Rose Hall Town Bakewell, Mahadeo took 5 wickets for 27 runs, Rondell Lewis 2 for 26, Erva Giddings 2 for 20 while Sylus Tyndall and Azam Khan each claimed a wicket as Whim’s late order added crucial runs.

In reply, Mahadeo and former Berbice Under-19 player Vidal Crandon added 70 for the 1st wicket in just 8.5 overs before Crandon was bowled by Anthony Deosarran for 35 (2×4, 2×6).

Mahadeo was then joined by West Indies female cricketer Shemaine Campbelle. They added 90 for the 2nd wicket to carry Rose Hall Town Bakewell to victory at 160 for 1 in the 21st over.

Mahadeo ended unbeaten on 80 (10 boundaries and two sixes) and Campbelle on 31 (2×4). Bowling for Whim, Deosarran was the lone successful bowler with 1 for 30 off six overs.

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Guyana Times article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The Ministry of Communities has announced the staging of a 20/20 hardball Inter-Ministry cricket match today at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground on Lance Gibbs and New Garden Streets, Queenstown.

The match will be contested under floodlights from 19:00h when Minister Keith Scott will bowl off the first delivery to signal the start of the game.

The Housing/Water Super Kings team will comprise Ramchand Jailal (Captain), Omar Narine (Vice-captain), Harold More, Casey Hickery, Naeem Khan, Motie Naraine, Ramkumar Ramnarine, Khemraj Persaud, Kenroy Pilgrim, Jason Goodhart, Avinash Parsram, Troy Trotman and Keron Archer.

They will be opposed by a combined team from the Agriculture/Tourism Ministries whose players will consist of Christopher Vandeyar, Seon Simpson, Vickram Deonarine, Arian Griffith, Rayadh Ali, Dhaneshwar James, Quincy Gordon, Rondel Nedd, Scion Richardson, Davindra Singh, Dhaneshwar Deonarine and Orlando Headley.

Minister Scott posited that this initial match will mark the commencement of regular Ministerial staff interaction involving both indoor and outdoor activities and will undoubtedly boost not only morale, but also contribute to the development of a healthy work ethic and also promote interpersonal relationships.

The Ministry of Communities cordially extends a warm invitation to the general public to this event- entry to which will be free of cost and refreshments will be on sale.

First Published In The Guyana Times.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - A century by Marcus Watkins coupled with a 12-wicket match haul by Leon Andrews handed Guyana Defense Force (GDF) a comprehensive 119-run victory over St. Stanislaus when the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Noble House Sea Foods second division two-day tournament continued last weekend.

Watkins stroked 101 while Andrews Slammed 82 as GDF posted 279-5 declared, batting first at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda. The pair added 126 for the second wicket with Watkins hitting twelve fours and two sixes and Andrews’s eight fours and three maximums.

St. Stanislaus were sent packing for 80 in reply. Irfan Ally made 26 and Shane Bacchus 22. Off-spinner Andrews proved almost unplayable, taking 7-12 from six overs while Miguel Cort picked up 2-15.

Asked to bat a second time St. Stanislaus were routed for 80 with Ally scoring 54; Andrews grabbed 5-25 to finish with match figures of 12-37. Nakithia Nester claimed 2-18.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

WICB Media Release.

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – A historic gathering will take place tomorrow in Barbados, when the WICB Professional Cricket League Coaches Conference is convened featuring coaches from each of the six franchises.

For the first time, regional coaches will meet with three key WICB officials – Director of Cricket Richard Pybus, Convenor of the West Indies Selection Panel Clive Lloyd and Head Coach of the West Indies team Phil Simmons – to discuss matters of common interest in the further development of the game at the professional level in the Caribbean.

The coaches attending are: Hendy Springer and Dexter Toppin (Barbados Pride), Esuan Crandon and Rayon Griffith (Guyana Jaguars), Junior Bennett (Jamaica Scorpions), Reginald Benjamin (Leeward Islands Hurricanes), Gus Logie (Trinidad & Tobago Red Force) and Ian Allen (Windward Islands Volcanoes).

“It’s the first sitting of the franchise coaches with us and to get them all aware of what are our common goals as we approach the second season of operation of the PCL,” said Pybus, who will chair the meeting.

“It is very important that they also have the opportunity to share the challenges which they face at the franchise level, as we work together to build a World-class cricket performance system.

Pybus added: “At the end of the day, the goal is for us to be producing international quality players for the West Indies and we need to be able to identify what challenges we face and streamline the system, so that it works efficiently.

“It’s also an opportunity for the coaches to network with fellow coaches and take practical examples back to their franchises, so that we are able to advance West Indies cricket.”

The PCL was introduced last year and ushered in a new era of franchise play drawn from the six territories of the WICB, with the specific goal of giving players the opportunity to produce consistently throughout the season.

Two of the important features of the new league are a longer 4-Day Tournament with each franchise playing 10 matches, the transfer of player talent from territory to territory and the introduction of retainer payments for 15 core players in each of the six franchises.

Simmons said he was looking forward to the conference, where issues of training methodologies, fitness standards and player evaluations will be discussed.

“This is one of the first things for which I asked when I was appointed West Indies head coach, so that we can outline to everybody where we want them to be and where we want the players to be,” said Simmons.

The new PCL 4-Day season is scheduled to start in early November and conclude next March, with the NAGICO Super50 set for next January.

WICB Media Release.

Guyana Chronicle article.

TORONTO, Canada – When the inaugural Toronto Cup softball tournament kicks off here today, it will be the culmination of a dream, born out of last year’s annual presentation dinner and dance staged by the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC).

The announcement by OMSCC president Jai Singh was met with roars of approval from those present and today 14 teams, six in the Open category and eight in the Masters will start their quest for top honours following last night’s meet and greet and draw at the Tropical Nights Restaurant and Bar here.

Picking a winner in either division seems an arduous task in the three-day tournament which climaxes on Sunday with the two finals, set for the University of Toronto ground.

Preliminary matches will be played at Ellemere, Ashtonbee, Littles and St Bede’s with Dean Park being the alternative while the semi-finals are scheduled to be played at Littles tomorrow afternoon to facilitate hardball cricket at Ellesmere and Ashtonbee.

When the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) staged a similar tournament in 2003, its team, led by Rovendra Madholall, emerged winners, by defeating a Guyana XI captained by Dharam Persaud. That tournament was, however, competed only in the Open category.

Madholall is once again in the fray and is in the OSCL lineup and according to manager Terry Mathura he’s confident of success once again.

According to Mathura, his charges have been undergoing rigorous training sessions over the past few weeks and are raring to go.

Apart from the hard-hitting Madholall, the team also includes 2003 Most Valuable Player Munniram Khan, the likes of former Guyana fast bowler Trevon Garraway, former Under-19 player Harrinarine Chattergoon and Travis Blyden.

Two teams, which have been making waves in the OSCL, Dant and Caribbean Sensation are also brimming with confidence that they will be in winners’ row come Sunday.

Dant took the OSCL by storm in their debut 2014 season, capturing all three competitions (20-over regular season, 15/15 and 10/10) in an unprecedented performance and were unbeaten until they were stopped in their tracks by Caribbean Sensation in this season’s 10/10 tournament. They were also beaten by Cricketers Cove in the 15/15 final but are still in contention for the 20-over regular season honours.

Among the big names featuring for Dant are former Guyana captain Damodar Daesrath, former Guyana and West Indies Under-19 batsman Hemnarine Chattergoon, Farook Hussain, Yadram ‘Lara’ Bhog, skipper Looknaught Ramsuchit, Shaun Deonandan, Riaz Kadir, Avi Singh and Satrohan ‘Blade’ Balkarran. It is also learnt that former skipper Aftab Shamsudeen will be making a return following his sudden retirement earlier this year.

Caribbean Sensation, on the other hand, have been enjoying a successful year, winning their first title after five unsuccessful attempts. They defeated Masters in the OSCL 10/10 final, and in Rishi Samuel and Zaheer Allard possessed two of the finest hitters in the tournament.

The other Toronto side, GM Sports, formerly Cove/Masters, also cannot be taken lightly but the loss of man-of-the-match Ejaz Mohamed in the 15/15 final will definitely be a big blow to their efforts. Mohamed’s mother passed away in Guyana on Monday and according to report he has flown out to Guyana for the funeral.

Much is not known of the New York invasion but with the influx of several seasoned former Guyanese players among their contingent they cannot be underrated. They are being represented by New York Softball Cricket Club (NYSCL) and New York Enforcers.

The Masters category also promises lots of action with the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA), led by Rickey Deonarine fancying their chances of coming out on top.

GFSCA will not, however, have things their own way as the leading team in the OMSCC, Our Own Sports Club boast quite a formidable lineup. Until last Sunday, they have not been defeated in a record 55 games over a three-year span. That remarkable feat however ended last Sunday when they went down to their nemesis Guyana Sports Club.

Skipper Mahedranauth ‘Bobby’ Parasnauth is however confident his team will be holding the winners’ trophy aloft come Sunday. Among the other big names in the team are Sunil Dhaniram, Troy Gobin, Shiv Seeram, Desmond Chumney, Jaimini Singh and Orin O’Neil.

The other teams in contention in the Masters category are an OMSCC XI, NYSCL. New York Muslim Softball Cricket Association and Caribbean Sensation.

The winning team in the Open category is guaranteed US$3000 while the Masters winners will cart off $2500

In addition, the victorious and runners-up in both categories, the most valuable players and the man-of-the-match in the final are assured of trophies, compliments of the Trophy Stall of Guyana. Proprietor Ramesh Sunich, who is also part of the GFSCA Legends, will be on hand to present several of the trophies.

As part of the three-day event, the New York Enforcers Cricket Club, in its ongoing efforts to contribute to charitable organisations in Guyana, has planned a massive food drive in conjunction with the OMSCC. Spectators and players are therefore urged to donate generously in the form of canned foods and other items such as school supplies and toys. The donated items will be shipped to Guyana to help the less fortunate.

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Guyana Times article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The Area ‘H’ ground in Rose Hall Town would be a hive of activities on Sunday as the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) hosts another cricket tournament as part of its Silver Jubilee anniversary celebration.

Twelve teams will battle for the championship title and the winning prize of $70,000 in the Assuria Insurance 5-over knockout tournament.

The teams are Rose Hall Town Bakewell A, Rose Hall Town Bakewell B, D’Edward, Kennard Memorial, Blairmont, Police, Belvedere United, Tamarind Root, Fyrish, Yakusari, All Star Youth and Courtland.

Heavy rainfall had forced a postponement on the last scheduled date of August 30.

The tournament, which will bowl off at 09:00h, is been organised by the Cricket Development Committee of the RHTY&SC as part of its massive ‘Say No to Drugs and Crime’ programme, a joint initiative with the Community Outreach Department of the Guyana Police Force ‘B’ Division.

The losing finalist will receive $30,000 and a trophy, while the third place winner will take home 20,000 and a trophy. General Manager of Assuria Insurance in Guyana, Yogindra Arjune, and Secretary/CEO of the RHTY&SC, Hilbert Foster, will officiate at the presentation ceremony and share out the prizes at the end.

Below is the composition of the 12 teams.

All Stars Youth- Ricky Persaud (Captain) Dwayne Scott, Anthony Carrington, Travis White, George Carrington, Jeetendra Sukhdeo, Hector Cortis, Elroy Fernades, Deoram Persaud, Sanjay Persaud, Randy Ramroop, Jadesh Persaud, Navin Persaud and Anand Bharrat.

Police CC- Philbert Wilburg (Captain), Brentol Woolford, Martin Singh, Wayne Richard, Carl Campbell, Elon Shultz, Kevin Sinclair, Lawerence Thomas, Collis Cort, Marlon Sheperd, Clinton Lindee, Haslyn George, Jamal Jerrick, Leon Andrews and Charles Leranon.

Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘A’- Vidal Crandon, Khemraj Mahadeo, Delbert Hicks, Shemaine Champbelle, Mark Papannah, Micheal Hicks, Jason Anderson, Sylus Tyndell, Mark Fernandes, Erva Giddings, Roydel Lewis, Joshua Wilson, Justin Gobin.

Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘B’- Kevlon Anderson, Surendra Budhoo, Junior Sinclair, Keith Simpson, Brandon Corlettle, Kumar Jeet Joseph, Seeindra Marimutoo, Azam Khan, Joshua Gobin, Simon Lawson, Denzil Sinclair, T. Ross, Matthew Pattaya and Shakeem Johnny.

D’Edward CC – Jaipaul Heeralall (Captain), Heeralall Bridgelall, Eon Abel, Lakeraj Sookraj, Altaf Khan, Mahendra Persaud, Christian France, Hoolsaran Lalsa, Navin Rampersaud, Abdool Subhan, Deinauth France, Dishawn Phillip, Keith Fraser and Marcus France.

Yakusari Caribs CC- Naipaul Jayona (Captain), Keshore Ayana, Churamanie Ajona, Romesh Ayona, Rajendra Bownauth, Ryan Bownauth, Altaf Mohamed, Terrence Budhu, Karamchand Singh, Jason Watson, Karim Amin, David Bhola, Vijai Ayana, Kuldep Ayana and Khelmoon Phagu.

Courtland CC- John Percival (Captain), Eon Gibson, Wesley Crandon, Micheal Cummings, Oliver Giddings, Esaun Crandon, Troy Matheson, Keon Sinclair, L.Thomas, Jemal Cort, Trellon Cort, Timothy Mcdonald, Delon Crandon and Dwayne Crandon.

Tamarind Roots CC- Adrian Singh (Captain), Kunal Mangal, Altaf Mohamed, Mahendra Ramdihal, Avinash Looknauth, Linden Austin, Andy Mohan, Dilip Ramasammy, Kevin Madramootoo, Alvin Ramdas, Deonarine Rangasammy, Prem Deonarine, Ravi Ramdas and Manzoor Budhu.

Belvedere United CC- Joshua Dhanai, Devin Juns, Hazrat Ishamail, Avon Cobis, Asif Kamaladin, Sudesh Veerapen, Dendeas Mohan, Azeez Khan, Farouk Khan, Shazam Khan, Mohan Permaul, H. Samid.

Kennard Memorial CC – Andrew Persaud, Mankarran Singh, Chunilall Mankarran, Thomas George, Junior Blair, Farouk Drepaul, Kamaladeen Parmauloo, Martin Seelall, Azam Hussain, Tamesh Ramessar, Devindra Sydney, Ravi Bassoo, Tota Ramlall, Darren Ramessar and Kennard Gopie.

Fyrish CC-  M. Shivdyall (Captain), Y. Chinapen, A. Srikissoon, C. Roopnarine, J.Ally, J.Mohamed, W.Mohamed, S. Keven, T. Sinclair, A. Hassan, M. Mohamed, M. Amin, L. Notoos, D. Narine and J. Singh.

First Published In The Guyana Times.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) season continues this weekend with games in the Carib Beer T20 first division the Noble House Seafood’s two-day second division, the Hadi’s two-day division one and the NBS 40-over second division tournaments.

The only first division two-day is set for tomorrow and Sunday at Bourda with GDF taking on GCC while two-day second division games are fixed for the Malteenoes ground and Police ground Eve Leary on the same two days. At Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC), GDF do battle with Transport Sports Club while Saints and Police face-off at Eve Leary.

Tomorrow, two T20 first division games will be played with Everest hosting UG from 09:30hrs and home team DCC playing GNIC from 13:30hrs.

On Sunday, two more first division games are scheduled to be played at Everest on Camp Road where Police will hope to arrest MSC in the 09:30hrs game before Everest battle GYO from 13:30hrs.

Action in second division 40-over competition will see Third Class taking on Sophia at GNIC and Everest playing host to GYO while on Sunday GCC come up against UG at GNIC and DCC face GNIC at the DCC ground, Queenstown.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Guyanese Test batsmen Leon Johnson is presently in the 166 Sq mile Island of Barbados where he is a part of the West Indies Cricket Board’s (WICB) two-week batting camp.

The camp is aimed at preparing the ‘mental and technical’ aspects of eight of the leading batsmen in contention for possible selection for the Sri Lanka two-test series which starts with a two-day warm-up match on October 4.

The first Test begins on October 14 with the second Test scheduled from October 22-26. Three ODIs and two T20s will also be played in Sri Lanka before the West Indies head ‘down under’ for a three-Test series which starts on December 10.

The Caribbean side will play Australia in the traditional ‘Boxing Day Test’ before the final Test starts on January 7, 2016. The 28-year-old Johnson, who has two half-centuries in his four Tests, said he is enjoying his time at the camp at the High Performance Centre (HPC) under Head Coach Phill Simmons and disclosed that the camp “has been going good so far”.

“I have been working hard on my fitness and the technical part of my batting and I am hopeful of being selected to go to Sri Lanka since there is no Regional Cricket before that tour,” said the Guyana Captain who has played 63 First-Class matches since making his debut at Enmore against the Leewards 11 years ago.

Johnson, who made his Test debut in St Lucia against Bangladesh last year, was on 66 in his first innings at Test level when he was stuck on his pad by Taijul Islam and took too long to call for the review, which would have shown that the ball would have missed the wicket.

In addition to Johnson, 26-year-old opener Rajendra Chandrika, only the second West Indian to bag a ‘pair’ on Test debut when he failed to score against Australia in Jamaica in his only Test thus far, is the other Guyanese at the Camp.

Jamaican Jermaine Blackwood, the Bajan quartet of Shai Hope, the unrelated Braithwaite’s (Kraigg & Carlos) and wicket-keeper Shane Dowrich (who made his debut as a batsman) all began the camp on Monday.

Talented but temperamental left-hander, Trinidadian Darren Bravo only arrived in Barbados on Wednesday night. Fast and spin bowling camps were held recently and the Guyanese pair of Devendra Bishoo and Veerasammy Permaul attended the spin bowling camp.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

WICB Media Release.

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board announced on Friday an 18-member training squad for the International Home Series against Pakistan Women next month.

TRAINING SQUAD

Stafanie Taylor (Captain)

Shakera Selman (Vice-Captain)

Merissa Aguilleira

Shemaine Campbelle

Shamilia Connell

Britney Cooper

Deandra Dottin

Afy Fletcher

Stacy-Ann King

Kycia Knight

Kyshona Knight

Hayley Matthews

Anisa Mohammed

Chedean Nation

Shaquana Quintyne

Karishma Ramharack

Tremayne Smartt

Vanessa Watts

NOTES

The WICB has announced that Stafanie Taylor will be the new captain of the West Indies Women’s team. She succeeds Merissa Aguilleira, whose tenure of captain started at the 2009 ICC Women’s World Cup in Australia.

The appointment was recommended by the WICB Selection Panel and endorsed by the Directors during a teleconference meeting on Wednesday.

The 24-year-old Taylor, who is a top-order batsman and part-time off-spinner, has played 84 One-day and 62 Twenty20 Internationals, since making her debut for Windies Women. She has been the long-standing vice-captain of the team and led Jamaica Women to a sweep of the Regional Women’s titles between 2010 and 2014.

Head WICB selector Clive Lloyd said Taylor had many of the qualities needed to be an inspirational leader.

“Merissa has been there for a long time and did a pretty good job, but we feel the time is right for a new leader and we have chosen Stafanie,” said Lloyd. “She has done well for Windies Women with bat and ball, and has led Jamaica Women successfully, so leading the team would not be alien to her.

“It’s a change that we hope will bring new energy to the team and take it from strength to strength. We believe we can develop a pretty good women’s team for the future and we see Stafanie as the person that could give us that impetus for the future. . .Stafanie has played quite a lot, she has been ICC Player-of-the-Year and she will be able to lead by example.”

Commenting on the announcement, WICB President Whycliffe “Dave” Cameron said: “The Directors have confidence in the decision made by the selectors and accept that it has been made in the best interests of the women’s team.

“Stafanie has held a senior role in our women’s team for some time and has been a good role model for the younger players. She is someone who we believe can take on more responsibility and we congratulate her on this appointment.”

He said: “We also would like to thank Merissa for her leadership of the Windies Women over the last six years, a period during which she helped to establish the side as one of most competitive in the World.

“She was the longest serving West Indies Women’s captain, leading the team to the Final of the ICC Women’s World Cup in 2013 in India and the semi-finals of the last three ICC Women’s Twenty20 World Cup.”

Karishma Ramharack, a 20-year-old off-spinner, is the only complete newcomer to the squad with Kyshona Knight, Chedean Nation and Vanessa Watts earning recalls. Medium-fast bowler Shakera Selman, who takes over as vice-captain, and leg-spinner Shaquana Quintyne return following injury and playing leading roles for newly-minted regional champions, Barbados Women.

The squad will be encamped in Barbados from late September for a period of two weeks prior to the start of the series.

MATCH SCHEDULE

October

Tue 13: Tour Match – Beausejour Cricket Ground, St. Lucia (Start: 10 am)

Fri 16: 1st One-day International – Beausejour Cricket Ground (Start: 10 am)

Sun 18: *2nd One-day International – Beausejour Cricket Ground (Start: 10 am)

Mon 19: Reserve Day

Wed 21: *3rd One-day International – Beausejour Cricket Ground (Start: 10 am)

Thu 22: Reserve Day

Sat 24: *4th One-day International – Beausejour Cricket Ground (Start: 10 am)

Sun 25: Reserve Day

Thu 29: 1st Twenty20 International – National Cricket Stadium, Grenada (Start: 2 pm)

Sat 31: 2nd Twenty20 International – National Cricket Stadium (Start: 2 pm)

WICB Media Release.

WICB Media Release.

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board announced on Friday a 15-member Test squad for the Tour of Sri Lanka next month.

SQUAD

Jason Holder (Captain)

Kraigg Brathwaite (Vice Captain)

Devendra Bishoo

Jermaine Blackwood

Carlos Brathwaite

Darren Bravo

Rajindra Chandrika

Shane Dowrich

Shannon Gabriel

Shai Hope

Denesh Ramdin

Kemar Roach

Marlon Samuels

Jerome Taylor

Jomel Warrican

Team Management Unit

Phil Simmons (Head Coach)

Sir Richie Richardson (Team Operations Manager)

Stuart Williams (Assistant Coach)

Sir Curtly Ambrose (Assistant Coach)

Andre Coley (Assistant Coach)

C.J. Clark (Physiotherapist)

Richard Berridge (Performance Analyst)

Virgil Browne (Massage Therapist)

Philip Spooner (Media Relations Manager)

NOTES

The WICB has announced that Jason Holder will be the new captain of the West Indies Test team. He replaces Denesh Ramdin.

The appointment was recommended by the WICB Selection Panel and endorsed unanimously by the Directors during a teleconference meeting on Wednesday.

Head WICB selector Clive Lloyd said Holder the appointment was made with an eye to the future.

“He is a young man that all of the selectors, people in the Caribbean and worldwide believe has several of the qualities that can take our team forward,” said Lloyd.

“We felt the time was right for a change and we feel he will do as well as he did when he was elevated to the position of One-day International captain ahead of the World Cup.

Lloyd added: “We had a number of detractors when he was appointed ODI captain, but he showed during the ODI series in South Africa and the World Cup that he had the qualities that were needed to take our team forward.

“We expect to get new thinking and new dynamism from him. Jason commands respect. He is a fine young man, very intelligent and he seems to get the best from the players because he is a straightforward guy. I think the players will warm to him. He has a young bunch of players and we feel he can guide them in the manner that is required for internationals.”

The 23-year-old Holder also currently holds the position of captain of the West Indies One-day International team. He has appeared in eight Tests, following his debut against New Zealand last June in his native Barbados.

Lloyd said though he felt Holder had the ability to lead West Indies in all three formats, the selectors had no immediate intentions of making him Twenty20 captain right now.

“We do not want to any captain to lead in all three formats just now,” said Lloyd. “It would be quite burdensome on anyone. We think we can have a separate Twenty20 captain.”

Lloyd thanked Ramdin for leading the Test side and said the wicketkeeper/batsman was still had a important part to play in the success of the team.

“I have spoken to Denesh and he understood the situation and there was no animosity,” said Lloyd. “We just want him to perform a little bit better right now, particularly with the bat, and give of his best and support the new captain.”

Commenting on the announcement, WICB President Whycliffe “Dave” Cameron said: “The Directors discussed the recommendation put forward by the selectors. We have all seen Jason’s clear leadership potential and believe he can perform an excellent job for West Indies cricket over many years. We congratulate him on his appointment.

“We would like to thank Denesh for taking on the responsibility of leading the Test side over the last 15 months. He remains an integral part of West Indies cricket and will continue to have a vital role in our Test side.”

Holder is out of the Caribbean on personal business and will comment on his elevation to the position when he returns.

The squad includes uncapped left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican, the only newcomer to the international scene, and uncapped fast bowler Carlos Brathwaite, who has made appearances for the Caribbean side previously in One-day Internationals.

The players will be encamped in Barbados from September 20 for a period of eight days and are scheduled to arrive in the Sri Lanka capital of Colombo on October 1.

MATCH SCHEDULE

October

Sun 4 to Mon 5         Tour Match – To be confirmed

Thu 8 to Sat 10         Tour Match – To be confirmed

Wed 14 to Sun 18     1st Test – International Cricket Stadium, Galle

Thu 22 to Mon 26    2nd Test – Singhalese Sports Club, Colombo

Thu 29                        Tour Match – To be confirmed

Sat 31                         1st One-day International – Premadasa Stadium, Colombo (day/night)

November

Wed 4                         2nd One-day International – Rajapaksa Stadium, Hambantota (day/night)

Sat 7                           3rd One-day International – Premadasa Stadium, Colombo (day/night)

Tue 10                        1st Twenty20 International – International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

Thu 12                        1st Twenty20 International – International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

WICB Media Release.

Guyana Chronicle article.

TORONTO, Canada – Proprietor of Trophy Stall Ramesh Sunich is delighted to be associated with the staging of the inaugural Toronto Cup softball tournament, which got under way here yesterday.

According to Sunich, who is a prime supporter and sponsor of sports in and out of Guyana, he has long been a lover of softball cricket. He reminisced that he still plays the game at the senior level. “My firm, Trophy Stall, is supportive of softball cricket. We sponsor not just tournaments but also teams.”

Sunich pointed out that Trophy Stall is happy to be one of the sponsors of this tournament and that his presence here is an indication of the importance he and the Trophy Stall attach to it.

Sunich further alluded to the fact that softball cricket in Canada has taken off and it can only get bigger and better.

The popular Guyanese businessman said he believes that Canada has the potential to further the worldwide expansion of this game and he looks forward to the day “when we can have international softball cricket played”.

According to Sunich, “This is a dream I believe can be realised. There are many good men and women who are committed to softball. There are high-quality players and there are tournaments now being played both in Guyana and here in Toronto to boost the game even further.

“I would like to commend the organisers of this edition of the tournament and I am confident that this competition will be a success.

“The teams who will be participating will no doubt give of their best. I anticipate a very exciting and competitive tournament, conducted in the spirit of fair play and good sportsmanship. I wish all the participating teams best of luck.”

“May we all have a super tournament and may we come back next year to an even bigger and better event.”

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Guyana Times article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Ramo Malone missed out on the competition’s first century, but his brilliant could not take Fishermen Masters over the line against Enterprise Legends in the Petama Enterprise/Motor Trend’s inaugural softball cricket competition.

Malone’s 90 not out is the highest score of the competition to date, but his team fell short of the target by two runs. Below are the summarised scores from the latest round of matches.

Enterprise Legends defeated Fishermen Masters by two runs. Enterprise 164-4 in 20 overs (N Wilson 52, Seemangal Yadram 33*, R Ali 30) Fishermen 162-7 in 20 overs (Ralo Malone 90*, V Gobin and S Seebarran took two wickets each).

Farm defeated Princess Hotel by 157 runs. Farms 230-5 in 20 overs (Rajesh Reddy 59, Ricky Sargent 51, Sheldon Perch 37, J Masha 3-32) Princess Hotel 73 all out in 12 overs (Azharudden Mohamed 3-10, Lalta Karim 2-15).

Brickery Superstars defeated United Brothers by five wickets. United Brothers 150-7 in 20 overs (R Ajooda 43, S Ghanie 29, Stephano Morgan 3-18, Frederick Wilkie 2-22) Brickery 151-5 in 17.2 overs (Kelven Kanhai 32, Deon Ramdial 26, R Geewan took two wickets).

Savage Masters defeated Park Rangers by nine wickets. Park Rangers 161-7 in 20 overs (Mohamed Rafeek 41, Talesh Ramoutar 33, Herbie Jentle 3-2, Wallack Joseph 2-15) Savage Masters 163-2 (R Samaroo 49, Kennard Luke 36, H Gentle 27*, Nadir Baksh 21*).

Matches will continue this weekend with six matches at two venues in Georgetown. At the GNIC ground on Woolford Avenue: 09:30h – Regal Masters versus Savage Masters, and at 12:30h – Herstelling Raiders versus Regal.

At the Carifesta Sports Complex ground: On Pitch One at 09:30h – Young Guns versus United Brothers; 12:30h – Farm versus Wolf Warriors; One Pitch Two at 09:30h – Brickery Super Stars versus Princess Hotel; at 12:30h – Parika Defenders versus Enterprise Legends.

First Published In The Guyana Times.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - On a soggy DCC ground and a track with some moisture 19-year-old left-hander Taignarine Chanderpaul hit an unbeaten 48 to lead Everest to a 10-run win over the University of Guyana (UG) on the Duckworth/ Lewis rule yesterday in a Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) / Carib Beer T20 First division match that was reduced to a 10-over battle due to a mid-morning downpour.

In the other match at the same venue, an attractive 59 from opener Troy Benn and 4-27 from Ricardo Adams spearheaded Police to six-run victory over GNIC. After a 65-minute stoppage due to rain with Everest on 29-2 from 6.4 overs the game was reduced and Everest scored 42 runs in their last four overs, as Chanderpaul tore into the bowlers with disdain, making 30 of those runs.

The West Indies Under-19 batsman reached the boundary six times and cleared it three times, twice off consecutive balls from Pavindralall Persaud. Micheal Shalim (2-6 from 3 overs) reduced Everest to 18-2 by getting rid of Askay Persaud (0) and Guyana U-19 Captain Travis Persaud (5); no one else got into double figures as Everest reached 70-5 when their overs expired.

UG, set a revised target of 81 in 10 overs got a firm 45-run foundation from openers Darnel Douglas (23) and Leon Williams (31) but they could only reach 75-6. In the afternoon game, Benn’s 59, Shaid Gittens (20), and an unfinished stand from Stephen Harris (15) and Leron Premo (15) took Police to 147-5 off 20.

Pacer Rawle Merrell (2-4 from 4 overs) had a miserly spell for GNIC who could only muster 142-6 despite 38 from West Indies batsman Assad Fudadin, 30 from Jason George and 19 from Persaud.

Fudadin and Persaud shared in a 51 run partnership but once Adams removed Fudadin and Ryan Shun (0) in successive deliveries to leave the score on 82-5 and the wicket-keeper dropped Merrell of his hat-trick ball it was all over bar the shouting.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - A useful all-round performance from left-arm spinner Raj Nanan put GCC in a strong position to beat GDF outright at Bourda on the opening day of the final game of the Hadi’s GCA first division two-day competition.

GCC must win today to overtake leaders DCC and lift the trophy.

Nanan snatched 4-37 to help dismiss the Soldiers for 89 after the entire first session was washed out. Only Nail Smith (33 not out) and Randy Lindore (24) who posted 46 for the seventh wicket put up a fight as five ducks were registered in the GDF innings.

West Indies ‘A’ team pacer Ronsford Beaton (2-21) removed both openers to leave the score on 17-2 before pacer Joshua Wade (2-17) got rid of Jomal Lafleur (8) and Marcus Watkins (0) who scored a second division century last weekend, as the Army slipped to 35-4.

Nanan captured two wickets in his first over as GDF slumped to 38-6 and although Lindore and Smith offered some resistance Nanan and Anthony Adams (2-14) wrapped up the GDF innings which included four Berbicians.

GCC began shakily when Robin Bacchus (8) was bowled by Smith and Adams (9) fell to Romaine Shepherd. National Skipper Vishal Singh (19) and Jeetendra Sookdeo (24) took the score to 60 before Singh departed off Lindore. LaFleur dismissed Renaldo Mohamed (0), Sookdeo and Devon Lord (0) as GCC slipped from 60-2 to 70-6 but after Wade (14) was run out at 106-7, Nanan who reached his highest division one score, aided by five fours and six guided GCC to 131-7 with a first innings lead of 41 runs. Lafleur has so far picked up 3-21. 

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Guyana Chronicle article.

TORONTO. Canada – The inaugural Toronto Cup softball tournament, featuring teams from the host country Canada, Guyana and New York, got off to an auspicious launching last Thursday night at the Tropical Nights Restaurant and Lounge here.

Among those in attendance at the scenic open air setting was Bas Balkissoon, Liberal member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario representing the riding of Scarborough Rouge River, officials of the organisers, Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) and players of the competing teams.

In brief comments, Balkissoon urged the visiting teams from Guyana and New York to take the time out during the holiday weekend to visit Toronto in order to take back fond memories of “this beautiful city”.

President of the OMSCC, Jai Singh, said he was delighted with the response to the tournament and showered praise on his organising committee for the splendid and tireless effort in ensuring the tournament became a reality.

Special commendations were also reserved for businessmen Nasser Baksh and Teddy Hussein whose initiatives, according to chairman of the organising committee Azeem Khan, played major roles in tournament’s success.

The OMSCC presented plaques to both in recognition of their commitment to the game of softball and their contribution to the Toronto Cup.

Khan also had special praise for the dynamic input from Mahendranauth ‘Bobby’ Parasnauth who was instrumental in getting most of the overseas teams’ participation and also was a staunch member of the organising committee.

Trophy Stall of Guyana, through its proprietor Ramesh Sunich, also took the opportunity to honour several individuals for their contributions to softball in general and to the Toronto Cup.

Among those presented with plaques were OMSCC president and vice-president, Jai Singh and Azeem Khan respectively, and Parasnauth. Sports journalists Frederick Halley and Ravendra Madholall were also recognised.

Meanwhile, the finals in both Open and Masters categories were scheduled to be staged yesterday at the University of Toronto ground, Scarborough.

Powerhouse Dant were down to face the unbeaten New York Enforcers in the Open while the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSC) faced off against giant killers Our Own Sports Club.

The OMSCC would also take this opportunity to thank several sponsors, including Trophy Stall, Laparkan Trading, Charley’s West Indian Foods, Roop Auto Body, Rajin West Indian Roti Shop, Boodhoo Construction, Top’s Automotive Supply, Feroze Yakub – Demand Maintenance, Our Own Auto Repairs, Ken Jewellery, Shine Party Rentals, Windies Restaurant, Berbice Window, Persaud Dry Wall and Taping, L.A Auto Body Collision, Norman Sue Bakery, Caribbean Sensation Cricket Club, Azeem Karamat First Realty, Air Touch Travel, Nirad Lall, Scotiabank, Tropical Nights Restaurant and Lounge, Clifton Yacoob – Cads Window Fashions, Kawall Narine – Jemtexusa Sports. Jeff Mirza 0 Danplas Pipe Systems and Robert Lall among others.

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Twenty-one year-old Ray Nanan turned in a useful all-round performance yesterday to lead GCC to an emphatic innings and 66-run victory over GDF at Bourda with over two sessions to spare on the final day of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) Hadi’s two-day first division cricket match to take the title.

Resuming on their overnight 131-7 replying to GDF’s paltry 89, GCC progressed to 180 all out with Nanan taking his unbeaten 45 to 60 before he was dismissed. GDF, set 91 to avoid an innings defeat fell for the lowest first division two-day total in GCA’s cricket when they were shot out for an embarrassing 25 on an easy paced track, 10 minutes before lunch to ensure the home team overtook defending GCA two-day Champions DCC to take the title.

Left-arm spinner Anthony Adams bagged 5-7 and got support from fellow left-arm spinner Nanan, who had 2-5 to finish with match figures of 6-42. Nanan and First-Class fast bowler Ronsford Beaton, who joined forces on Saturday at 106-7, extended their partnership to 50 runs before Nanan, who reached the boundary eight times and cleared it twice, was bowled by off-spinner Randy Lindore at 156-8.

Beaton was then removed by Lindore for 26 with two fours and six. Lindore finished with 3-50 while former Guyana Under-19 player Berbician Jomal Lafleur (3-38) offered support for the Soldiers who crashed to 25-8 innings closed with only opener Leon Andrews (10) getting into double figures.

Fast bowler Neil Smith and Alex Nester were both ‘absent injured’ after they collided with each other while trying to stop a cut shot. They had to go the Hospital where Smith had a cut above his left eye, stitched and Nester received medical attention for a swollen head.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Police and Guyana Defense Force (GDF) grabbed first innings points when the latest round of matches in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Noble House Sea Foods second division two-day tournament concluded yesterday.

At Eve Leary, Police and St. Stanislaus played to a draw with the former reaching 265-4 off 35 overs in their second innings at stumps on the final day after enjoying a lead of 151. Opener Reginald Rodrigues stoked a fluent 100 while Corwin Austin scored 50 and Daniel Barker 41. Rodrigues hammered sixteen fours and shared in a first wicket stand of 105 with Barker who hit six four’s before he was dismissed.

Rodrigues and Austin continued to frustrate their opponents featuring in a third wicket stand of 57. Austin hit six fours and two sixes. Police declared on 255-6 off 47 overs in their first innings after they were inserted.

Vishal Jaigobin struck an unbeaten 69 while Daniel Barker scored 42 and Joshua Paul 26. Barker and Michael Corbin added 50 for the second wicket after Rodrigues went for 12 with the score on 18. Darson La Rose chipped in with 19.

Akash Dhanpaul claimed 3-52 and Xavier Ragnauth 2-47. St. Stanislaus were sent packing for 104 in 26.3 overs in reply. Imran Ally smashed seven fours and two sixes in a top score of 53, Ramcharran Bawan picked up 3-13 off seven overs and Jaigobin 2-16.

At Malteenoes Sports Club, GDF scored 177 all out, batting first. Opener Colvis Sam cracked 45 while Jeremiah Harris made 29; Damien Ross 28 and Jason Garraway 20 not out. Sam and Ross posted 61 for the opening stand to give their team a bright start before Sam was bowled by Devon Nandan after hitting four fours and two sixes.

Ross then shared in a second wicket stand of 100 with Godfrey Matthews (13) before TSC fought back with incisive bowling led by off-spinner Azeem Azeez who captured 6-45. TSC fought bravely but fell for 175 in reply.

Azeez showed his all-round prowess with an authoritative 79 while Sunil Singh who made a century in the previous game scored 30. Azeez mixed aggression with defense as he shared in a last wicket stand of 65 with Mark Baptiste (11*) before he fell with his team two runs shy of first innings honours.

Michael Cumberbatch bagged 4-45 and Jeremiah Harris 3-36. Batting a second time GDF reached 37-6 when stumps were drawn. Azeez and Joshua Wilson claimed two wickets apiece, the game ended in a stalemate.

First Published By Kaieteur News.