AFTER making a promise more than two weeks ago, former Guyana batsman Andrew Gonsalves has fulfilled same. On Wednesday, Gonsalves, who was known for his explosive batting, presented a cheque for $100 000 to the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club (ACCC), the entity where it all started for the no-nonsense right-hander. Gonsalves was not there to hand over the sponsorship cheque, but his niece Henna Rupnarine did the honours at a simple ceremony in the Main Hall of the ACCC, whose president Vemen Walter accepted on behalf of his club. Speaking via Zoom, Gonsalves who is the owner/manager of the Cell Towers Builders Inc, USA, pointed out that “I am delighted to give back to my club. It is always a pleasure for me to assist and I will continue to do so. It is very likely that I will do this annually.” While thanking Gonsalves for his tremendous contribution, ACCC president Walter reassured all that the sponsorship, which is mainly for the club’s Under-21 team, will also greatly assist the overall development for Berbice and West Indies cricket.

“As we all know, Albion is a major player in Berbice, Guyana and West Indies cricket, having known to produce top quality cricketers over the years. As we all are aware cricket is a very expensive game and I must thank Mr Gonsalves for this sponsorship.
“It is a clear testimony of his continued commitment towards Albion’s cricket, which he had also demonstrated during cricketing days,” Walter pointed out.
Wednesday’s presentation/sponsorship was witnessed by Dularie Lachminarine and Henna Rupnarine – the sister and niece respectively of Gonsalves – along with current top Albion cricketers Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul and Gudakesh Motie.
The donation marked one of many which ACCC has received recently including another from Gonsalves, who has been a consistent contributor to the ACCC.