National left-arm spinner and Level Two coach, Anthony Adams, will take up his new role as coach of the Essequibo side in the Guyana Cricket Board Dave West Indian Imports Under-15 Inter-County tournament today, a role which he is open minded about and optimistic with the prospects.
Adams, 27, sat down with Stabroek Sport on the eve of their clash against powerhouse, Berbice, at the Lusignan Community Centre ground and shared his thoughts ahead of the tournament.
Reflecting on their preparation leading up to their first match, Adams said, “Of course more would always be better but nevertheless the four days was very good. The players seem to understand their game and are willing to work.”
Looking at the side selected, he noted that there are a few guys in Shazif Mohamed and Gladwin Henry Jr., who have been here before as well as some others who had shown positive signs during the trials.
“The team has some players returning who we would obviously look to lead the newcomers who have the talent,” he stated.
While the team intends to win the competition, Adams explained that he wants to instill a sense of motivation, passion and understanding into the players in order to have themselves elevated to higher levels and not worry about just winning.
“Apart from winning, I want to groom players to carry on throughout all levels of cricket. This is the most junior Inter-County tournament and I want them to have that understanding from now as they elevate to the higher levels but for now it’s about understanding their game, gain experience, knowledge and executing,” Adams said.
“Heading into the tournament it is a big opportunity for the players to elevate themselves and get into the national team and represent Guyana by doing well and putting their out there,” he added.
He posited that often players are intimidated by a “big name player” but said: “I want the players to understand that the other teams have players just like themselves with the same goals, everyone wants to win. It’s just to get them to understand no one or name is bigger than the game and I’m just trying to have them execute the plans and stick to what works in order to come out on top.”
The skipper of Essequibo’s senior franchise team admitted that he is aware that players need help with basic stuff at this level but ultimately wants to create leaders and have players who can orchestrate a play while executing plans on the spot.
“It’s not just about players depending on the coach to set up a game plan but for them to be leaders, use initiative, set up a game plan so that on the day they could think on their feet.”
Having led Essequibo their first major titles, Adams suggested that he hopes the players can be inspired by what he has accomplished and perform to their best but on a personal note, is happy to be given the opportunity to give back to Essequibo cricket.
“I’m happy to have the opportunity to do what I always wanted to do which is giving back to Essequibo cricket and I’m also extremely happy to share the knowledge I have gained over the years, especially since I’m still active…Of course leading Essequibo to their first major titles has given me tremendous exposure and hopefully that can help motivate the players to boost their cricket so it is just about getting the message over and having them execute,” he stated.
