By Rajiv Bisnauth

DIRECTOR of Sport Christopher Jones is of the opinion that the ICC Under-19 World Cup win has reenergised West Indies cricket and the Caribbean at large. Jones made the comment yesterday during a welcoming home ceremony for the Guyanese trio, skipper Shimron Hetymer, Keemo Paul and Tevin Imlach, who represented the winning West Indies team at the Youth World Cup, held recently in Bangladesh.

“We do believe that as a result of this win, it has re-engaged the younger players, perhaps the Under-17 team to endeavour to do what you have done so West Indies at the Under-19 level can win the next World Cup and beyond.
“But of course you guys have started the ball off, and that has reenergised West Indies cricket and of course the Caribbean at large,” Jones said.
The Director of Sport, apart from congratulating the three players, lauded the remainder of the squad, team management and support staff members.
It was the first major title for the West Indies at any level since Darren Sammy’s senior team won the ICC World Twenty20 in Sir Lanka in 2012.
The West Indies won the Under-19 World Cup for the first time in their history after beating India by five wickets – with only three balls to spare in Dhaka.
Meanwhile, president of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Drubahadur contended that the future of the game in the Caribbean appears to be in safe hands.
“The hard work has paid off and the future of West Indies looks good,” the GCB president said.
Drubahadur lauded the players for their commitment and attitude, adding that they were good ambassadors not only for themselves and Guyana, but also for the entire Caribbean.
Further, the GCB head indicated that the board remains committed towards the development of the sport at all levels.
To this end the board will be focusing on leadership qualities, and according to Drubahadur, the board this year will roll out a computer skills programme, since cricket is not only a game, but also a business where the use of modern technology is vital.
On the other hand, Digicel presented the three players each with one Galaxy S6 Edge phone.
In making brief remarks after the presentation, Digicel’s Public Relations Officer, Vidya Brijlall-Sanichara told the gathering that the telecommunication giant remains committed towards youth development and sport in general.