The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has made a donation of more than $1 million worth of equipment to the East Bank Cricket Association (EBCA) as part of its gear distribution programme.
This was disclosed by an official release from the GCB. It also stated that GCB President, Bissoondyal Singh, presented the equipment to EBCA President, Puneet Jaigopaul, in the presence of executives and players from various clubs within the jurisdiction.
“The donation is important not only in monetary terms but its value to the youth players involved in the game on East Bank Demerara, allowing them to participate in training sessions and matches without having to consider the additional burden of purchasing gears. Consequently, we are happy that players took the time to attend this presentation which tells us about your interest in the game and the exemplary work your executives are doing,” Singh was quoted as saying.
He added, “We at the GCB recognize that EBCA have demonstrated strong leadership. In approximately one year, a lot of development works have been done, including the upgrade of the Farm Ground and the hosting of regular training sessions for players. We are proud of your achievements, and realize that many Associations and Committees are endeavoring to do likewise. This is a very good sign and the GCB is immensely pleased that East Bank Demerara is producing national players.”
He assured that the local governing body is committed to making the Farm Community Centre ground an Academy Centre for males and females, adding. “We expect the EBCA to work collaboratively with the GCB and its affiliates to make GCB’s Academy Program a success.”
The release stated that five academies will feature in Demerara, while Berbice and Essequibo will contain six and seven respectively.
“The Territorial Development Officer, Colin Stuart will soon submit the detailed program requirements and needs for Cricket Academies across the Country. We are grateful for the cooperation from EBCA and urge President Puneet Jaigopaul and his team to ensure that Players, Coaches, Scorers, Umpires and Match Referees across your Association put all efforts into improving their standards,” Singh further disclosed
Meanwhile, Jaigopaul thanked the GCB for their contribution, noting that it will add to the developmental scope of the entity by encouraging parents to send their children to training.
