SECOND division cricket will return to Georgetown and outlying areas thanks to the New Building Society (NBS) which yesterday launched the 4th edition of its 2015 tournament. Into its fourth edition of a partnership with the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), NBS has committed to the hosting of the 16-team tournament at various venues within Georgetown from August 22.
At yesterday’s launch, vice-president and director on the company’s board, Seepaul Narine, indicated that the company is elated to return as a sponsor.
“Hopefully, a cricketing star, or maybe a few like another (Rohan) Kanhai, (Clive) Lloyd, (Shivnarine) Chanderpaul, (Lance) Gibbs or of course (Roger) Harper can emerge from this competition. This second division competition provides an excellent opportunity for players with concealed talents to make a name for themselves.”
President of the GCA, Roger Harper, thanked NBS for their continued sponsorship of the tournament and by extension cricket.
He added that the tournament has already begun to bear fruit when it comes to the future of West Indies Cricket.
“These opportunities have led to a number of players going on to greater heights in the cricketing realm. This year we saw 12 young cricketers who would have played in the New Building Society (NBS) trophy competition during the last three years – 12 young men who benefited from the opportunities your sponsorship provided for them to display their skills and refine their game. This year saw those 12 players represent Guyana at the various youth teams.”
The tournament will be played in two zones with the top two of each moving on to the semi-finals and final. GCC are defending champions for three years running.
The competing clubs are Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), Everest Cricket Club (CC), Transport Sports Club, Third Class Cricket Club, GNIC, Police Sports Club, Ace Warriors, Guyana Defence Force, Demerara Cricket Club, University of Guyana, Muslim Youth Organisation, Malteenoes Sports Club, Gandhi Youth Organisation, Sophia Cricket Club, St Stanislaus College and Diplomats Cricket Club.
As is the norm, both bowling and batting points will be awarded for outstanding performances on both sides of the innings. (Stephan Sookram)