…One newcomer among 10-member executive body

BUOYED by the success and growth during his eight-year tenure as President of the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA), Guyana-born Shiv Persaud was given the green light to serve another term (two years) when the entity staged its Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Sunday at the Malvern Family Resource Centre, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.

Persaud, who withstood the challenge from Abigail Rajkumar, took over the SCA when it had a paltry 21 teams at the end of the 2015 season and that has since risen to a massive 110 following the completion of the 2023 season. The 2024 season is set to get underway on Saturday, May 11.

In his Presidential report, the dynamic Persaud described the past year as a remarkable one for the Association. “It was highlighted by continued growth in participation of clubs and players. Our events were successful and board members were committed and engaged. We enhanced community engagement through the growth in clubs and social media presence. Our commitment to promoting cricket at all levels remains unwavering.”

According to Persaud, “we witnessed an 18 per cent increase in membership of clubs, demonstrating the growing interest and passion for cricket within our community. Our tournaments across all divisions were completed successfully and showcased outstanding talent which was evident by the numerous individuals who were recognised at our 43rd annual presentation.”

Persaud disclosed that “despite our successes, there are challenges in upgrading and maintaining our cricket facilities. This remains a priority for the upcoming year. However, our adaptability allowed us to successfully navigate these challenges together. Ensuring proper player activation and clear communication was a major challenge throughout the year for us.

“Our financial position remains strong and expenses were closely monitored, ensuring prudent financial management. We strive to achieve transparency in fund allocation and expenditures. We are proposing to cover the cost of balls for all finals. This is in addition to the umpiring fees which is already covered.”

Persaud said the SCA is committed to expanding its community outreach initiatives, partnering with local schools, community programmes and organising cricket awareness campaigns to foster a love for the sport. “Efforts are being made to ensure cricket is accessible to everyone. We are committed to investing and working with the City in facility improvements. This includes pitch maintenance, potential lighting at suitable fields, and ensuring proper cutting of the outfields. We are exploring initiatives to enhance our youth and women programmes with the potential of starting an indoor development programme.”

Persaud expressed gratitude to his fellow board members, dedicated members, sponsors, and volunteers for their unwavering support, pointing out that the SCA remains committed to fostering a vibrant cricket community and looks forward to achieving new milestones.

Meanwhile, Zakir Patel was voted in as the new Secretary, replacing the long-standing Eon Gunraj who will now serve as Grounds Coordinator. Matthew Francis (Treasurer), Abigail Rajkumar (Registrar/Statistician), Abu Rubait Alam (Webmaster) retained their posts.

The positions of Vice-president, held by Bisham Singh, Assistant Secretary/Treasurer – Abhinav Kavuru, Public Relations/Marketing – Frederick Halley and Assistant Grounds Coordinator – Mark Lall were not up for grabs since they are in the first year of their two-year term. (Frederick Halley)