–says tournament beyond political control

THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has strongly rejected recent remarks by APNU Presidential Candidate Aubrey Norton, who suggested that the Global Super League (GSL) T20 tournament could be scrapped if his party wins the upcoming elections.

In a sharply worded statement issued on Tuesday, the GCB described Norton’s comments as “ill-informed and fundamentally misguided”, stressing that the tournament is a fully private initiative that falls outside the jurisdiction of any government.
“The GSL is not a government-run programme,” the GCB clarified. “It is privately owned and managed, funded entirely by the private sector, with principal sponsorship from ExxonMobil and other respected corporate partners.”

Adding weight to its position, the Board highlighted that the GSL is chaired by the legendary Sir Clive Lloyd, one of the most celebrated figures in international cricket. His leadership, the GCB said, gives the tournament global credibility and makes it a transformative investment for the country’s sporting and economic future.

“No political administration—current or future—has the authority to discontinue or dismantle the tournament,” the Board stated. “Any suggestion to do so demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the legal, commercial, and operational frameworks that govern such international sporting ventures.”

Launched as a flagship T20 league, the GSL has been credited with elevating Guyana’s presence on the global sporting map. According to the GCB, the league not only creates high-level opportunities for local and regional players but also generates significant economic spinoffs through sports tourism, international broadcasting, hospitality, and wider job creation.
“To suggest its termination is not only reckless and myopic, but an affront to the aspirations of young athletes and the many stakeholders working tirelessly to build a modern cricketing legacy in Guyana,” the Board said.

The GCB reaffirmed its “unwavering support” for the Global Super League and pledged to continue working alongside corporate partners and cricketing stakeholders to secure its growth and long-term success.

“The GSL is more than just a cricket league—it is a platform for national excellence, economic opportunity, and international respect,” the statement concluded. “Guided by the steady hand of Sir Clive Lloyd and backed by world-class partners, it is destined to become a pillar of Guyana’s modern sporting identity.”