ꟷ eyeing 2020 Under-19 call-up after experiencing 2019 snub
By Brandon Corlette
Nigel Deodat has been one of the consistent performers for Berbice at all inter-county tournaments. His snub from the 2019 Regional U-19 tournament had raised many question marks, but the humble lad describes it as a blessing in disguise.
Engaging this publication in a chat recently, Deodat reflected on his career thus far, and signalled his intention to break into the U-19 set-up in his final year at junior cricket.
Deodat, with his mom after the Berbice U-19 triumphed last year
The Boxing Day birthday boy – he was born on December 26, 2001 — who had the good fortune to represent Guyana at the Under-15 and Under-17 levels, graduated as the leading wicket-taker for his country at both Regional tournaments. Reflecting on those stellar efforts, Deodat had the following to say:
“It’s been a great feeling for me, I must thank God. This helped me a lot to be a cricketer, and I am motivated by this.”
The top left-arm spinner has emerged from a humble background, having lost his father when at age five, he was raised by his mother in a single-parent setting. That did not limit Deodat, as he continued to reach for his dream. He represented Berbice at the Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 levels, and sharing his sentiments on his non-selection to the Guyana U-19 team, Deodat noted that he is still motivated to move forward.
Deodat, bowling in his Blairmont outfit (Brandon Corlette photos)
Like many junior cricketers in their final year at junior cricket, Deodat is aiming to finish on a high, and transition into senior cricket with a Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) Academy contract.
Deodat had a taste of franchise cricket when he played for the West Berbice team and gained knowledge from senior lads Shimron Hetmyer, Gudakesh Motie and Kevin Sinclair. Deodat had limited opportunity, but he is aiming to once more play for his West Berbice franchise. The right-handed classy batsman has a high-score of 134 against Bush Lot, and his best bowling figures are 8-30.
Deodat with his mentor Shabeer Baksh
Blairmont Cricket Club Vice-President, Deodat’s mentor Shabeer Baksh, recalled Deodat’s journey when he joined the club around age 13. “When Deodat came, he only knew soft-ball cricket. We spotted his talent, and he followed guidelines to become the good bowler that he is today. His control was ‘up there’ with the ball, but he is also conquering all other components of the game,” Baksh highlighted.
Baksh further declared that Deodat’s fitness is ‘right up there’ and he always gives 100% for any team he plays. Baksh was also surprised at Deodat’s non-selection in 2019, but he said that decision was up to the selectors.
“If Nigel has the opportunity, he will progress to represent better teams, because he has the ability. I am hoping everything goes in his favour,” Baksh has said.
Deodat has shown great promise. Given that he continues his strong work ethic, he would certainly wear the Guyana colours at the U-19 level, once the selectors give him his well-deserved opportunity.
