… 16 teams to battle for $250 000 prize

By Clifton Ross 

THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/Tropical Springs Water launched their Over-40 T20 tournament yesterday with action bowling off today across the country with COVID-19 regulations in full effect. 

The Veterans event marks the return of live action on GCB’s behalf, since the 2020 Regional 4-Day competition was halted due to the pandemic and organisers believed that it is a great way to commence live studying of a potential playing module should the pandemic persist.

With a first-place prize of $250 000 and a runners-up purse of $100 000, the 16 teams from across the 3 counties – Essequibo 4 teams, Berbice 4 teams and Demerara fielding the most with 8 teams, will be in a clear tussle for bragging rights and the cash prize up for grabs.

GCB Marketing executive Lalta Gainda said the tournament will play a key role in the battle against COVID-19, as it targets the age group which medical experts say is more susceptible to being victims of COVID-19.

He said with the number of veterans who have been out of action for months with limited ways to keep game-fit or just stay physically on point, especially during these times, fitness,in older folks is essential.

With permission given from the local COVID-19 Task Force, sports, such as cricket, are now easing their way back into live action and GCB secretary Anand Sanasie said the tournament will be played with no fans and strict guidelines will be followed by partakers.

Organisers urged all players and teams to continue following the pandemic protocols, especially with the competition’s start set for today at three venues.

Over at Everest ground, the first of two matches will see WD Masters battle the home team Everest Masters from 09:30hrs.

The second encounter at Everest bowls off at 13:45hrs with KV Construction Masters tackling the veterans of Regal Masters.

Over at Enmore ground, RP Construction Legends will square off against WD Mavericks from 09:30hrs while the second match features a showdown between Sand Piper Masters and Bel Air RUBiS Ultra Tec, rounding off what should be an exciting opening round.