Smalta Inter-Primary Schools Windball Tournament returns after Seven-Year Hiatus

Jun 03, 2026 Sports

Kaieteur Sports – The National Sports Commission (NSC), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS), and long-standing sponsor Smalta officially welcomed the return of the Inter-Primary Schools Windball Cricket Competition on Tuesday last with a vibrant opening event at the National Gymnasium.

Students, teachers, sports coordinators, sponsors, and NSC officials gathered to celebrate the revival of the popular schools’ tournament, which returns for the first time since 2019. The atmosphere was festive as speakers highlighted the competition’s importance in developing young talent, promoting discipline, and fostering teamwork among students.

Smalta Inter-Primary Schools Windball Tournament returns after Seven-Year Hiatus

Players representing some of the schools involved along with officials of the sponsors and organisers take time out for a photo.

Delivering opening remarks, Smalta Trade Marketing Executive Mikhail Da Silva reflected on his own journey through the Windball Cricket programme.

“A few years back, I was just in your position,” Da Silva told the young participants. “I started playing Windball Cricket for North Georgetown Primary and later for Central High School right here. With the progress and support I received then, I am now in a position to partner with the MCYS and NSC in making such an investment.”

He encouraged participants to embrace the spirit of the game and enjoy the competition. “This is a step in the right direction. Play in the best spirit of the game and may the best team win. Have a great competition—no fighting, just make friends,” he added.

Some of the students enjoy a drink of Smalta during the action.

Speaking on behalf of the tournament sponsor, Smalta Brand Manager Sonia Ganpat expressed Guyana Breweries Inc.’s pride in supporting youth development through sport, noting that, “Smalta has been a brand for generations, and Guyana Breweries Inc. is very happy to be a part of this Windball programme.”

“This is the first event of this kind that I am witnessing, so make it fun and exciting. And remember, when you get to the supermarket, pick up a Smalta,” Ganpat implored.

Meanwhile, Assistant Director of Sport Melissa Dow welcomed the return of the championship and praised the participating students.

“I am very happy to see primary school children playing Windball Cricket in 2026. We at the NSC and MCYS are all proud of you,” Dow stated.

She also reminded participants that Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs began his sporting journey playing Windball Cricket, just as they are doing today.

Dow stressed the importance of discipline both on and off the field.

“Discipline is very important in sport and throughout life. Teamwork is also important. The word for this tournament is discipline,” she emphasized.

Sports Officer Allister Munroe expressed his delight at seeing the competition return after a lengthy absence. “I am very pleased to have Windball Cricket back among our primary schools after 2019 with the support of the NSC, MCYS and Smalta,” Munroe said. “This sport has a great history of producing talented students who have gone on to represent their clubs, counties, Guyana and even the West Indies.”

He thanked the participating schools, teachers, and students for embracing the initiative and encouraged them to enjoy the experience.

The tournament is expected to provide a platform for hundreds of young cricketers to showcase their skills while continuing Windball Cricket’s tradition of nurturing future stars of the sport.

While the opening of the tournament was welcomed by all in attendance, the officials also got a chance to witness the official bowl off, featuring action in both the Boys’ and Girls’ segments.

Here’s a look at the first results in the Smalta-NSC/MCYS ASTP Return of Primary School Windball Cricket played inside the National Gymnasium.

In the Girl’s match, Saint Agnes Primary recorded their first victory, knocking over Smith Church by 20 runs after posting 42-0, thanks to a rock-steady opening partnership from Tevika Bunbury (20 runs) and Arwen Cox (16 runs). When Smith Church Primary batted, they could only muster 22-1.

Over in Boy’s, Craig Primary lost to Graham Hall Primary by nine wickets. Craig batted first, setting a target of 34 runs, with Christopher Hunte top scoring with his 16 to help his side up to 34-3. In response, Grahams Hall Primary 40-1, thanks to a fine innings from Jahaziel Smith, who stoker a patient 24 runs.

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Inter-Primary Schools Windball Tournament, smalta

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