Guyana Gov’t supports regional cricket redevelopment
GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has pledged his country’s support in the development of a regional high-performance centre in Guyana, and says he will continue his collaboration with Cricket West Indies on “innovative ideas” aimed at triggering a resurgence of the West Indies brand.
He was speaking after meeting at State House here with CWI President Dr Kishore Shallow; CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe; CWI Independent Director Manniram Prashad; along with owner of reigning Caribbean Premier League champions Guyana Amazon Warriors, Dr Ranjisinghi “Bobby” Ramroop.
“We are excited as a Government to play our part with the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and Cricket West Indies (CWI) in the new redevelopment of cricket in the region,” said Dr Ali.
“We welcome the partnership with CWI in the development of a regional high-performance centre and cricket academy here in Guyana.”
He continued: “We are also working with President Dr Shallow and Cricket West Indies on advancing some innovative ideas in bringing more opportunities to our cricket players and spectators in the region.
“I believe strongly that defining our product as distinct from other regions and countries is critical in the rebranding and repositioning CWI globally. Such a plan must incorporate the culture, people and natural beauty of our region.
“I urge CWI to unify their efforts in rebuilding and strengthening our cricket, in the interests of all stakeholders.”
Dr Shallow praised President Ali’s contribution to West Indies cricket, labelling his vision for the game as “unquestionable”.
The head of cricket’s regional governing body also said the collaboration with Guyana also holds “tremendous value”, and stressed the need for similar ties with regional governments.
“President Ali’s commitment to cricket is evident with the major investments to stage the magnificent cricket festival, including the CPL finals in Guyana,” Shallow said.
“His zeal for the success of West Indies cricket is unquestionable. This partnership with Guyana promises tremendous value for our young and emerging cricketers who will have access to world-class facilities and programmes comparable to the best in the world.
“I emphasise that for West Indies teams to be iconic again, it is imperative that there is considerable collaboration between CWI and governments in our region.”