PRESIDENT David Granger yesterday received a copy of a book that chronicles the history of cricket in Guyana, from members of the Board of Directors of the Hand-in-Hand Group of Companies, during a meeting at the Ministry of the Presidency.

The book ‘Hand-in-Hand History of Cricket in Guyana 1865-1897’ is a legacy project undertaken by the company to commemorate of its 150th anniversary.

Renowned Caribbean writer Ian McDonald explained that cricket is an important part of Guyanese history and culture, and as such, the company felt that the book would be an apt tribute, not only to the game, but to all Guyanese.

“I think it is probably the only time such a comprehensive history of cricket (has been) written from an individual West Indian country.

So it is a very distinguished book and the Board of Hand-in-Hand is hoping that it contributes to the history of Guyana for a very long time to come,” McDonald said.

Prominent Guyanese historian, Professor Clem Seecharan researched and wrote the book and a second volume is currently being worked on.

McDonald said that in his research, it was found that the first-ever inter-colonial cricket match was played in Guyana at Parade Ground in 1865, the same year the Hand-in-Hand Fire Insurance Company was founded. That match was between the-then British Guiana and Barbados.

The officials also presented the President with a collection of their 150th anniversary commemorative stamps which were launched in October 2015.