In a significant move to bolster cricket in the Caribbean, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, has pledged unwavering support to Cricket West Indies (CWI).
The commitment encompasses infrastructural development, cricket programs, and commercial opportunities aimed at revitalizing cricket in the region.
On October 13, 2023, President Ali and CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow convened at the State House in Guyana, underscoring their dedication to strengthening stakeholder relationships across the Caribbean. The meeting was also attended by notable figures such as CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe; CWI Independent Director, Manniram Prashad; and the Owner of Guyana Amazon Warriors, Dr. Ranjisinghi Bobby Ramroop.
The establishment of a High-Performance Centre in Guyana
President Ali reiterated his determination to forge a partnership with CWI with the overarching goal of enhancing West Indies cricket. A key objective of this collaboration is the establishment of a High-Performance Centre in Guyana, designed to cater to cricketers from the entire region.
President Ali said, “We are excited as a government to play our part with the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and Cricket West Indies (CWI) in the new redevelopment of cricket in the region. We welcome the partnership with CWI in the development of a regional High-Performance Centre and cricket academy here in Guyana.” He also affirmed his intention to work closely with CWI to promote the sport’s popularity and growth across the Caribbean.
Dr. Shallow applauds Guyana’s investments in cricket
The President emphasized the need for innovative ideas to enrich cricket players and spectators’ experiences in the region. He stressed the importance of branding CWI distinctively, incorporating the rich culture, diverse people, and natural beauty of the Caribbean.
President Ali highlighted the significance of collaboration among all stakeholders in the endeavor to elevate cricket at every level. He urged CWI to unite their efforts in the pursuit of rebuilding and fortifying West Indies cricket, keeping the interests of all stakeholders at the forefront.
Dr. Shallow applauded President Ali’s substantial investments in cricket within Guyana and recognized the immense potential of collaborating with the country. He remarked, “President Ali’s commitment to cricket is evident with the major investments to stage the magnificent cricket festival, including the CPL finals in Guyana. His zeal for the success of West Indies cricket is unquestionable. This partnership with Guyana promises tremendous value for our young and emerging cricketers who will have access to world-class facilities and programs comparable to the best in the world. I emphasize that for West Indies teams to be iconic again, it is imperative that there is considerable collaboration between CWI and governments in our region.”
Guyana’s successful hosting of the last two Caribbean Premier League (CPL) finals underscores its growing prominence as a cricketing destination. The cricket festival in Guyana, culminating with the CPL final, has evolved into a regional calendar event, drawing thousands of visitors to the nation.
