Upon their arrival back home Monday night with the WICB Regional Under-19 title in their possession, President of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Drubahadur and Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, lauded the Guyana U19 team at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
According to a press release from the GCB: “Drubahadur and Jones were elated upon the team’s return to local soil following their impressive run in Jamaica.
“It was evident that this team played as a unit and they enjoyed each other’s achievement. That is something vital if any team is to be successful and I am pleased that at the youth level, you guys showed maturity and stick to your game plan,” said Drubahadur.
“Apart from the victory, you fellas have been excellent ambassadors for your country and the GCB. We have been following your behavior as well and we received good feedback. I must applaud you and the management team in this regard as well,” he added.
Jones praised the team for retaining the title, stating that it is good to win something once but to do it more than once, back-to-back, was great. He also alluded to the players’ effort to dominate the tournament again.
“You didn’t become complacent and underestimate your opponent at any time, even when you had already qualified for the final; you went out and played
professionally. That is what top sportsmen do and you should be extremely proud of yourselves,” the new Director of Sport declared.
Jones also commended the GCB for sticking to their mandate and producing and selecting winning teams.
He stated that the Government of Guyana is committed to the development of sport and said that they will work with the GCB to see cricket progress in Guyana.
Team Manager, David Black, expressed his excitement at having such a warm welcome home, and praised the players for their discipline and dedication.
“I didn’t expect to see the Director of Sport here; this is such a heartwarming surprise. On behalf of the team I wish to thank you for your concern and time. Last year we won at home but this year we beat Jamaica in their backyard; that was overwhelming.
“The boys give it their all. It was as if they were hungry and winning was the only food available. I am so happy to be a part of this memorable accomplishment and I would like to thank the GCB for giving me that opportunity,” he added.
Captain Travis Persaud said all the players gave 100 percent and they played as a team in each game which was the reason for their success. He posited that this group of players is tough to beat and said that he was proud to be their captain. He thanked the GCB for giving him the chance, and his teammates for supporting him.
The four West Indies U19 players for next year’s World Cup Shimron Hetmyer, Tevin Imlach, Akshaya Persaud and Keemo Paul were congratulated for being called up for the WICB U-19 World Cup camp.
