The inaugural Georgetown Softball Cricket League Incorporated (GSCL)/ President’s T20 softball tournament was officially launched yesterday at the Everest Cricket Club.
At the launching, President of Guyana, Dr. Ifraan Ali, wished the organisers success for the event which will be played on March 5, 6 and 7.
Ali said that sports is a fundamental aspect of life and it was for this reason that the government has decided to invest in sports. As such, President Ali declared that it is the vision to have a multipurpose facility in every region.
He added that the victory by the West Indies in their first Test against Bangladesh earlier in the day was reflective of the passion of West Indians and the close connection they have to the game.
He urged the organisers to venture into the schools with a tournament for the younger players contending that sports teaches fairness, discipline, loyalty and team work.
Meanwhile, President of GSCL, Ian John, informed that this was the first of its kind adding that the conceptualizing began since December last year.
John revealed that eight teams will take part in three categories across eight venues. These categories include the Open version, Over-45 and Over-50. First placed teams will pocket $500,000 while second place will walk away with $100,000. Man-of-the-finals will win a 32 inch television.
Director of Cricket West Indies Anand Sanasie, commended the organisers for the hard work in putting together a tournament of this nature and also attracting so much sponsors including “the highest office of the land.”
The tournament is sponsored by Banks DIH, Trophy Stall, Danny Persaud of “It’s our life ARD” Youtube channel, Elegance Jewellery and Pawnshop, Star Party Rentals, P&P insurance, Crown Mining, Regal Stationer and Computer Centre, Regal Sports, Dinar Trading, Mohamed’s Enterprise, King’s Jewellery World and Roraima Group of Companies.
Sanasie said that softball played an integral part in reintroducing cricket during the pandemic with the Prime Minister’s Cup recently.
