BLISS Batters Legends are the latest team to join the ranks of the Over-50 ranks. Comprising mostly players from New York and Guyana and led by seasoned campaigner, Anand Persaud, popularly known as “Pandit,” the team made its debut yesterday in the third edition of the Vice-president T20 Softball Cup.
Speaking to Chronicle Sport, prior to their first game versus Trophy Stall Lions at the GNIC ground, Georgetown, Persaud was quick to point out that “Blissfullness” originated from the name Anand, hence Bliss Batters.
Persaud also disclosed that the name was chosen by manager Dayanand Mangu and his son Vijay, both of whom are based in New York.
According to Persaud, the intention is to compete in all Over-50 tournaments at home in New York, Guyana, Florida and farther afield if possible.
Persaud is happy with the present combination of the team, describing it as very strong and feels they have an excellent chance of emerging as winners of the Vice-president tournament.
Persaud however stressed that participating and enjoying the tournament at the end of the day is also extremely important to his team members.
Touching on the composition of the team, Persaud disclosed that among the key players are Mohamed “Stiffy” Rafeek, National Under-19 coach Yadram Latchman, all-rounder Ram Tulsi, hard-hitting batsman Sohan Biddesse, Ravi Etwaroo of Cricket Zone New York fame who also sponsored the uniforms and player/coach, Mark Babb. Another prominent sponsor is Car Zone, based in Guyana.
Persaud expressed appreciation to all the players, both in New York and Guyana and also to the organisers, Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) for the role it has been playing in tournaments like the Vice-president T20 Softball Cup.
A veteran, Persaud said he has been in cricket, both hard and softball for more than 50 years. Prior to migrating to the USA, he skippered McGill Super Stars and Malteenoes Sports Club in youth cricket.
Persaud also captained several softball teams in New York and had the distinct pleasure of leading Trophy Stall to victory in the New York Softball Cricket League (NYCL) Independence Legends Over-50 title in 2024. (Frederick Halley)