THE launch of the 11th Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) was indeed an everlasting euphoria that the impressive crowd at the Guyana National Stadium will never forget.

His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali was at his best, as his passionate speech certainly set the pace for all the fun and excitement that is scheduled to be here in Guyana for two glorious weeks in September. Significantly, the President’s introduction of a new product, his call for further unity in Guyana and the wider Caribbean must be strengthened and become a reality.

The CPL is a signature sporting event on the sport calendar in the Caribbean and beyond. This, the 11th version, is expected to be much more attractive, with the quality of preparation and the inclusion of greater sponsorship and more meaningful participation in Guyana and the Caribbean.

This CPL cricket will be more competitive. The competing teams are much stronger, and while batting and bowling normally win matches, this year, the fielding is expected to be magnificent. Guyanese did not enjoy the luxury of seeing live cricket at the National Stadium at Providence last year. However, this year we will be fortunate to see the hosting of seven group games, three knock-out matches, along with the GRAND FINALE. The National Stadium at Providence is an attraction, and cricket is an electrifying and a must for the mammoth crowd.

This year, Cricket Carnival will be a fusion with sports and culture. Guyana certainly has a special tourism product to introduce to the world; Our ‘eco’ tourism, the resorts and the magnificent and mighty Kaieteur Falls will certainly be amongst the attraction. September is Heritage Month, the month when our indigenous brothers and sisters (our First Peoples) are given the opportunity to celebrate and showcase their specialty: Great food and culture.

Already, the many phone calls that are pouring in from overseas, the booking from people around the world to visit Guyana is amazing. While it is true that we will not have enough hotel rooms, our nation is the most hospitable in the world, and our people will accommodate their families, friends and visitors.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and the Ministry of Tourism, along with the Ministry of Home Affairs are already in action, as they are in preparation for this ‘Mega’ event. While cricket is the main attraction, it cannot be denied that the fusion of Sports and the cultural activities will be superb.

Look out for the Guyana Night; look out for the Caribbean artistes, the music will be sensational.
As the PPP/C Government continues to develop and transform this country, our people will set the pace for development in this part of the world. It will be “Cricket, Glorious Cricket” right here in Guyana.