IN a landmark meeting at State House, President Irfaan Ali, Chair of the CARICOM subcommittee on cricket, recently convened key stakeholders to discuss a collective effort to reposition and strengthen the sport across the region.
The gathering featured a mix of cricketing legends and government officials, including former West Indies stars Dwayne Bravo, Roger Harper, and Courtney Walsh. Ministers Charles Ramson Jr., Steven Jacobs, and Hugh Todd were present, as was Cricket West Indies Chief Executive Officer Chris Dehering.
It is understood that part of the discussion centered on President Ali’s vision to revitalise West Indies cricket, focusing on grassroots development and long-term sustainability.
The President reportedly emphasised that the government is not merely a passive supporter but an active investor in the future of the sport.
A cornerstone of this strategy is the ambitious development of cricket academies within Guyana. Currently under construction, these facilities are being built not just for Guyanese talent but with an open-door policy for athletes from across the CARICOM region.
The academies aim to provide a state-of-the-art environment for young players to hone their skills, receive top-tier coaching, and benefit from structured training programmes.
The President plans to create a talent pipeline to nurture the next generation of West Indies cricketers, ensuring the region remains a powerhouse in the sport for decades.
By investing in these regional academies, Guyana is signaling its commitment to a collaborative approach to solving West Indies cricket’s challenges.