Dear Editor,
I have lots of issues with ‘live’ cricket broadcasting in the region, and the world at large, but my particular concern is with some of the Guyanese, who are involved currently in this profession. I am referencing my letter within the framework of the Guyana T10 Blast, when I unfortunately had to endure many bouts of ‘aural horror’ and ‘language crucifixion.’
Let me quickly illustrate. I got these in mere minutes of listening:
Hemraj did not had a good start; The ball did not went to hand; That catch will make it much more easier; The chases are getting more better.
Since I cannot use oral language here (as I am writing), I will not be able to illustrate what passes for ‘acceptable’ and ‘pleasant’ tonality, sound and timbre. But I hope these ‘pretenders’ covering the games will bear in mind that ‘live’ cricket coverage demands a congruence of ‘what’ and ‘how’ since we are talking about a profession that calls for the use of language skills at all levels, that is, grammar, pronunciation and appropriate ‘use’ of voice.
Editor, I go back to Munesh Dutt’s October 10, 2022 letter, “Live cricket commentary in shambles – a lost art.” Dutt, in justified anger, intoned then that he was ‘incensed’ and took “… great umbrage with cricket commentary in the Caribbean, and more so, in Guyana.” What was upsetting to him, and now in me, is that “… for quite some time now, the ‘authorities that be’ seem bent on finding ‘pals’ and ‘past players’ to do the job, when real, live cricket commentary demands some exceptional skills.” Hence, my extra-abbreviated list above of egregious and pre-school mistakes, as a compilation will be interminable.
In “Mastering the Art of Commentating: Expert Tips for Cricket Commentators”., February 13, 2024, Emma Washington asks “Are you an aspiring cricket commentator looking to captivate audiences with your words?
The suggested tips are simple and straightforward, yet not dogmatic, as I think each commentator can fashion his/her own ‘unique’ way of doing a pleasing and acceptable job.
For starters, “Good commentators in cricket ‘possess exceptional communication skills’ (as) they have (to master) the ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely, ensuring that the audience remain engaged throughout the game. Their descriptions of the action on the field (must be) both informative and captivating, (thus) enabling viewers to gain a better understanding of the game. These commentators (must be) adept at using language effectively to create a comprehensive and enjoyable listening/viewing experience.”
I also hope that Minister Kwame McCoy, and his sub-heads at NCN radio and television, and the Chronicle, ‘do’ their job, and if these subheads themselves are not au fait with what constitutes good coverage, then appoint someone who can actually do the job. For too long, “quality and professionalism have been far removed from international standards and expectations.
Yours truly,
Deodat Singh.
