Latest update August 4th, 2026 12:30 AM
The establishment of a cricket academy is essential
Dear Editor,
The race for the Presidency of the Guyana Cricket Board is interestingly poised at the moment and the three serious contenders are continuing to run a clean race; no doubt with the conviction of claiming an overwhelming and undisputed victory at the polls on January, 30th, 2011.
I can only predict that with the inclusion of Usain Bolt that there would have been a front runner. What is contentious at this stage however and should be seen as a legitimate concern is the faltering constituency of the aspirants.
The trio is from the County of Demerara, and at present, the election for that County is in legal limbo; quite in contrast to the operations of Berbice and Essequibo, the two other Counties.
This situation must be expeditiously concluded for the benefit of preserving the image of the contenders as being worthy, competent and has the full confidence of the cricket fraternity and the officers that are employed with the Guyana Cricket Board and including the other executive members.
My premise notwithstanding the above, is to lay claim for the establishment of a cricket academy. There must be a catalyst for excellence in any endeavor and cricket is no different. Our immediate history has shown the difference between mediocrity and professionalism.
In this case our cruel exposure at the international stage at the recently concluded Champions League in South Africa, where professional preparation was the key – on and off the field – and there was little too late.
It seems as though history will repeat itself as Guyana embark on another sojourn in their attempt to qualify for the next edition in India. The Guyana Cricket Board has got to recognize that our cricketers representing this country is just another step from representing the West Indies and therefore their preparation at all times should be in sync with international standards.
I was appalled to listen to a particular coach openly gossiping the mental incompetence of a currently promising young cricketer, whose assignment overseas was condemned in the Manager’s report. He may not be the only one that cannot comprehend basic instructions or even have the confidence to express himself constructively; all because of low self-esteem and the indignity of the authorities not to recognize same and be prepared to provide the requisite guidance.
His more learned colleagues, some of whom are well below his league, see the funny side of it and further infuriate the existing calamity. The mere mention of an academy seems to be a difficult pill to swallow, primarily from the perspective of the cost factor, hence the unwillingness and lack of vision by the authorities to even attempt to formulate a blueprint for consideration.
It is however, the only way to go forward of course, in addressing our cricketers needs, from a personal and professional standpoint and to be equipped technologically, scientifically, and resourcefully; tools of which will define an effective and progressive institution, so that our national identity does not become alien when battling overseas as if our cricketers are in Mars. We simply cannot continue to complain that the pitches are too fast in Barbados or the place is too cold in South Africa or yet to come, that India has too much heat? Professional preparation is the key and an academy is the answer.
May I suggest that the initial seriousness by which the Guyana Cricket Board can contemplate establishing an academy is by selecting the best prospective young cricketers from the three counties ranging from under 15-19 that will utilize the convenience of the Guyana Cricket Board Hostel for one week in every month for six months and of course taking into consideration the players educational commitments and the organizing of Youth Inter County tournaments.
The relevant resource personnel will be acquired in the various fields so that the players will be vastly exposed and can even confront complex situations with some degree of competence. It is not too late or is it too early for the incoming new president to digest?
Elroy Stephney
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