Captains Confident as GCB Super50 Tournament Bowls Off Today

– Demerara to battle Essequibo at Hampton Court

The much-anticipated Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Inter-County Super50 Tournament bowls off today at the Hampton Court Ground, with defending champions Demerara taking on Essequibo in the opening encounter.
During Thursday’s launch at the Herdmanston Lodge, the captains of the participating teams expressed confidence and excitement as they prepared to lead their squads into action.

Demerara’s captain, Matthew Nandu, said he is eager to embrace the opportunity to lead and help his team retain their title.
“I think it’s a very good opportunity and experience for me going forward in my career. Demerara is a very talented side, especially with the mix of youngsters coming through. So, I’m looking forward to it, and hopefully, we can retain the title,” Nandu stated.

He added that leadership is a role he welcomes.
“I always like being in leadership positions. It gives me more responsibility – not only as a leader in the team but also as a batsman. I’m looking forward to any challenges that come with it, but also the success as well,” he said confidently.
In his new role as Berbice captain, fast bowler Nial Smith acknowledged the honour and challenge of leading a county with such a rich cricketing culture.
“It’s a big responsibility to lead a special team like Berbice – a county of many stars. We haven’t won since 2022, but we’re looking forward to bringing the championship home this year. There may not be as many big names this season, but we still have good players. Essequibo is one of the favourite teams right now, so we’re ready for the challenge and not underestimating anyone,” Smith said.

In addition, the captain of the Guyana Select XI, Romeo Deonarain, said he hopes to build on his recent form at the regional Under-19 level while guiding a young and ambitious team.
“On a personal level, I’m just looking to continue that momentum from the Regional Under-19 tournament and perform well in our Inter-County competition. Hopefully, I can break into the senior setup,” Deonarain shared.
The four participating teams – Berbice, Demerara, Essequibo, and the Guyana Select XI – will compete for county pride and national selection honours, with standout performances helping determine the squad for the Regional Super50 later this year.
With the first ball set to be bowled today at Hampton Court, excitement is high as the 2025 edition of the Inter-County Super50 Tournament promises high-quality cricket, fierce county rivalries, and the rise of a new generation of Guyanese talent.