Anderson aiming to finish final regional U-19 tournament on a high note

By Brandon Corlette

West Indies and Guyana U-19 batting sensation Kevlon Anderson is aiming to sign off his final Regional U-19 tournament on a winning note.

Presently one of the best youth batsmen in the Caribbean, the solid right-handed stroke-maker and Berbice Under-19 captain is expected to serve as deputy captain to Ashmead Nedd when Guyana open their tournament against the Windward Islands on Sunday July 28, 2019.
Speaking to this reporter on Thursday July 25, during an exclusive interview prior to his departure with the Guyana team for St Vincent and the Grenadines, this multi-talented lad from Number One Road, Corentyne, Berbice said his intention is to help the Guyana U-19 team win the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional U-19 tournament for a sixth consecutive time.
Guyana U-19s are heading into this tournament as 5-time champions, and this year the tournament is being played in only the One-Day 50-over format.
“I just want to finish this tournament on a winning note, and being one of the top performers…,” he disclosed.
Anderson had led the Berbice Under-19 team to win the three-day inter-county title earlier this year, but he revealed that in the game of cricket, at some time or the other, every cricketer has a bad outing.
He noted that being a West Indies U-19 selectee puts no pressure on him to perform well, but rather gives him confidence.
Anderson was among 18 players involved in a West Indies training camp held prior to the start of this U-19 tournament.
“During that camp, I was working on playing spin, being aware of the fielders, picking up gaps, and (on) shot selections at each delivery”, he explained.
He said his aim is to remain focused and concentrate for as long as possible when playing the game. “With that, I know I have the ability to score easily, so it’s just (for me) to remain focused and concentrate for long periods throughout the tournament,” he declared.
Playing for Guyana U-19 team is nothing new to Anderson, this is his third year playing at the Regional U-19 level.
“It’s my third year at this level. I’ve seen what it’s like to play at this level, and my experience would be very important to the team in this tournament. I’ve seen what it takes to win this tournament, so sharing my knowledge with the rest of the guys is vital,” he said.
Apart from being an astute leader and exquisite batsman, Anderson is greatly valued for his right-arm fast-medium bowling. During the 2019 inter-county tournament, he opened the spell of bowling with the new ball and caused some problems with his great pace, creating an early breakthrough for his team.
As one of 14 members in the Guyana U-19 squad, Anderson will be called upon to employ his fast-bowling expertise to assist the other quickies, Qumar Torrington and Leon Swamy.
Anderson is expressing gratitude to the Almighty, his parents and siblings, and to one Serena Williams for helping him to become the cricketer he is. The talented cricketer also made special mention of his neighbour Chris Jagdeo of Chris Jagdeo & Son Construction; Rabani Gajnabi; his Uncle Kishore and his family; and his Uncle Eddie and his family.
Anderson, who played his cricket for the vibrant Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) also expressed gratitude to Club president Hilbert Foster, Anil Beharry, Chris Lachlan and his family, and all the players and coaches who have supported him.