The New Building Society (NBS) in collaboration with the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), on Monday, launched their limited overs second division competition for clubs in the city.
The tournament, which is set to commence Saturday, will feature 16 teams playing in two groups of eight prior to the semifinals and final. The 40-overs-a-side competition will be played simultaneously with the GCA’s Under-13, first division and second division two-day tournaments.
Speaking at the launching at NBS main office, Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown, on Monday, Chairman of the Board of Directors at NBS, Floyd McDonald, said they were elated to be part of the event. He added that NBS is involved in the development of housing in Guyana and since sport is substantial to development in communities, his organization was pleased to be involved. The chairman also declared that they are engaged in similar projects in Essequibo and Berbice.
In closing, McDonald, who promised continuous support, said that they do look forward to the day when cricket will unify Guyanese once again.
President of the GCA Roger Harper thanked NBS for their patronage and said he hoped this partnership will continue to flourish. Harper explained that the competition is not only an opportunity for the players to showcase their talent, but serves as further development for the youths. “Cricket offers an opportunity to develop life skills, discipline and also promotes healthy life style,” said Harper.
Zone A comprise of Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC), Ace Warriors, Transport Sports Club (TSC), Everest, Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), Third Class, Guyana Defence force (GDF) and Police.
While Zone B is made up of Muslim Youth Organisation, University of Guyana, Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), Diplomats, Gandhi Youth Organisation, Sophia, Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) and St. Stanislaus.
The following are some of the regulations that make up the playing conditions. The Competition shall be played in two zones (A and B) involving GCA Second Division Club Teams. The Competition will be played on a league basis in the zones. The first and second placed teams in each zone will advance to the semi-finals. The winner of Zone A will play the runner-up of Zone B in Semi-final one and the winner of Zone B will play the runner-up of Zone A in Semi-final 2. The winners of the two Semi-finals will contest the final. Matches shall be one day’s duration and will consist of one innings per side and each innings will be limited to 40 six-ball overs. To constitute a match, a minimum of 20 overs must be bowled to both batting teams, subject to their innings not being completed earlier. A team shall not be permitted to declare its innings closed. All Clubs must ensure that only registered players are selected to play in this competition. GCA debarring regulations are in effect for all second division competitions. Players that have represented Guyana at the senior level within the last three years and their County at the senior level within the last two years are debarred from taking part in GCA Second Division Competitions. Players who have played First Division cricket during the same year of this competition are required to play a least two matches in the league stage of this competition to qualify to play in the semi-final and final.
