CPL, MoSC discuss improved stadium capacity and fan experience

Chief Operations Officer of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Mr. Pete Russell, today paid a courtesy call on Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton, at his Main Street office.

Their brief engagement involved participation of Ms. Melissa Tucker, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Presidency, Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport.
During the visit, Minister Norton discussed several plans to improve the experience for patrons and the capacity of the Guyana National Stadium.
Mr. Russell expressed that game attendance could double if the stadium’s seating capacity is increased. He also sought to have addressed issues in regard to accommodation when tournaments are hosted in Guyana. He is of the view that more needs to be done in that sector to not only provide adequate accommodation for visitors, but also at competitive rates.
In regard to attendance and support for the tournament in Guyana, Mr. Russell said he is overwhelmed with the support, and noted that in spite of the current political climate, Guyanese have embraced each other and coexist in a cohesive environment during matches.
He posited that there is no divisiveness based on politics or race, and said he considers this impressive.
These two dignitaries also spoke of plans to expand cricket beyond the coast to persons living in the hinterland. Minister Norton posited that expanding cricket to the outlying regions could see persons becoming regional ambassadors for the sport.
Mr. Russell discussed plans for the expansion of CPL tournaments to become what he considers “a little more gender-friendly”. He explained that there is a long- term plan to hold a women’s tournament in the interest of diversity.
Minister Norton had, in a previous statement, declared that the Government of Guyana stands ready to lend support to this level of inclusivity, as CPL has the capacity to take female cricket to new heights.