Barry says players eager for cricket

By Clifton Ross
PRESIDENT of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), Neil Barry Sr, said teams and players alike are elated over the return of cricket, as they prepare for the 2022 General Industrial and Supplies Enterprise (GISE) Star Rentals/Trophy Stall 2-Day 1st division tournament.

Speaking with the Chronicle Sport yesterday, the GCB boss quickly noted that it was great to see the response from the teams/players, whom he described as ‘anxious’ when referring to their stance regarding the upcoming competition, which was officially launched last Tuesday.

“The teams and players are eager to play some cricket and they are happy we have launched the tournament so quickly”, added Barry, who went on to say that most of the boxes are already ticked but GCA is currently monitoring the position of the respective venues which are expected to host the matches.

He noted that some of the venues are not yet fully prepared but are in the process of being fine-tuned – with regard to cutting of any excess grass, re-rolling of pitches and any all-round finishing touches which are needed to have venues cricket-ready.

As such, the former Guyana player, now administrator, said he was confident that by April, all systems will be ready for action, as GCA hopes to complete this year’s edition of the tournament, minus any hiccups.

With a number of teams set to be involved in this year’s tourney, Barry said he wants to work closely with the other clubs across the city. He noted it was important for clubs to remain engaged while coming up with the necessary moves which will ensure that each club is sustained across all facets.

Mr Barry further outlined that this year’s competition will not be going zonal, instead, each team will play 8 rounds of mouth-watering cricket against each other, and something he said will provide a buffer for all the teams/cricketers involved.

As for the ever-looming threat of COVID-19, the GCA boss was adamant that clubs maintain the necessary safety guidelines while calling on players to remain focused on their health while following the rules to ensure a safe environment for all. Further information on the upcoming event, playing conditions or fixtures can be viewed on the GCA’s official website Pitchero.com.