THE East Bank Cricket Association (EBCA) has benefited from a donation of over $1M worth of cricket equipment from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB).
GCB president Bissoondyal Singh presented the equipment to the president of EBCA, Puneet Jaigopaul, in the presence of executives and players from various EBCA clubs and GCB executives.

According to a release from the GCB, Singh remarked that “the donation is important not only in monetary terms but its value to the youth players involved in the game on the East Bank Demerara, allowing them to participate in training sessions and matches without having to consider the additional burden of purchasing gear.

“Consequently, we are happy that players took the time to attend this presentation which tells us about your interest in the game and the exemplary work your executives are doing.”
Furthermore, the GCB president stated, “We at the GCB recognise that EBCA has demonstrated strong leadership. In approximately one year a lot of developmental works have been done, including upgrading the Farm ground and hosting regular training sessions for players.

“We are proud of your achievements and realise that many associations and committees are endeavouring to do likewise. This is a very good sign and the GCB is immensely pleased that East Bank Demerara is producing national players.”

Singh committed to making the Farm Community Centre ground an academy centre for males and females in GCB’s academy pogrammes.
Additionally, he pointed out, that there will be five academies in Demerara, six in Berbice, and seven in Essequibo. GBC is designed to roll out a comprehensive plan never seen before in Guyana.

It is understood that Territorial Development Officer, Colin Stuart, will soon submit the detailed programme requirements and needs for cricket academies across the country.
Meanwhile, Jaigopaul indicated that the EBCA is particularly happy to receive this substantial donation since gear is important to the clubs, noting, “with the clubs well equipped, this will encourage parents to send their children to participate in cricket training.