PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali expressed his disappointment with the organisation and execution of the President’s Cup Softball T20 final which took place yesterday at the Everest Cricket Club ground.
The Head of State, who was expected to make the presentation to the various winners of the competition, left shortly after arriving due to the amount of spectators at the venue and their lackadaisical approach to mask-wearing.
The President had agreed to be patron of the event, with the assurance that the organisers would adhere to the national COVID-19 guidelines.
In total, the President spent approximately 15 minutes at the venue, then left, but not before giving the organisers a mouthful about the need to follow protocols.
He made a passionate plea to spectators to follow the required safety guidelines.

“I am very disappointed in the way in which we are handling our responsibilities for each other. We all know how difficult it is during this pandemic. When I look around here, I must say that I am disappointed with the organisers for allowing the situation where you are exposing each other to this dangerous pandemic. As your President, I love you and I care about you. I cannot be in an environment like this and see you expose yourself in this manner and allow you to do it.”
During his speech, the Head of State also told the organisers that they have a responsibility to follow the rules that are in place or to face the consequences of their action.

Before departing the venue, the President asked the spectators to think about their communities, their families and themselves during these times.
“Please correct the situation by wearing a mask and following the COVID-19 guidelines.”
After the President left, organisers decided to call off the run chase of the Open final and to declare Speedboat and Regal All Star as joint winners. Earlier, Regal won the Over-40 and the Over-50 age divisions.