Guyana is set to host the first leg of the Tri– series between Australia, South Africa and home team West Indies in less than four weeks, at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence and according to Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board, Anand Sanasie, the leg comes at a great time, since Guyana has not hosted any international matches in two years.
Secretary of GCB and Director of WICB, Anand Sanasie
Sanasie also mentioned that the matches coincide with Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
Sanasie, who is also a West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Director, said: “Tremendous work has been put in to host an entire month of celebrations in May.
“The pitch at Providence is in great shape with excellent grass growth as many of our regional teams would have observed during the regional four-day which ended in March. Accommodation is ready and the other requirements are falling into place.”
He added, “The GCB has the capacity to host and we take pride in our execution. We have already established the necessary committees and the point persons have experience with hosting international cricket events. There is collaboration between all entities to ensure that we are all on the same page.”
The director also mentioned that the GCB has the full support of the Sport and Tourism ministries, and because of the Independence celebrations, “we expect great crowd support”.
On winning the awards from the National Sports Commission, Sanasie thinks the development programme instituted three years ago is reaping benefits.
Credit has been given to the new franchise setup of the WICB “which I think has enhanced our work with the Academy and will provide a secure pathway for youngsters serious about taking up cricket as a career. Despite the many challenges we were able to forge ahead and, given the current environment, I am hoping that things will get better.”
Sanasie is sure Guyana will continue to dominate the region in all categories and formats as there is a comprehensive plan of action in place.
He also stated that in three years he is hoping for the franchise system to be at a level where all teams are fully sponsored and local franchise players can earn a decent living. He also wants more nationals in the WI elite squad. “In three years we should be in a much better position than we are now,” he ended.
ODI Tri- series Match Schedule
June
Friday 3, West Indies vs South Africa – Guyana National Stadium, Guyana
Sunday 5, West Indies vs Australia – Guyana National Stadium
Tuesday 7, Australia vs South Africa – Guyana National Stadium
Saturday 11, South Africa vs Australia – Warner Park, St Kitts
Monday 13, West Indies vs Australia – Warner Park
Wednesday 15, West Indies vs South Africa – Warner Park
Sunday 19, Australia vs South Africa – Kensington Oval, Barbados
Tuesday 21, West Indies vs Australia – Kensington Oval
Friday 24, West Indies vs South Africa – Kensington Oval
Sunday 26: The Final – Kensington Oval
(Taken from Guyana Chronicle)