GBTI backs inaugural Beharry Schools’ U-19 T20 League

The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) has reinforced its commitment to youth development and sports by providing sponsorship of $3.5 million toward the inaugural Beharry Group of Companies Schools’ Under-19 T20 Cricket League.
The sponsorship cheque was officially handed over during a presentation ceremony held at GBTI’s headquarters, where representatives of the banking institution, the Petra Organization, and other stakeholders gathered to mark the occasion.

Speaking at the ceremony, co-director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Peters, expressed gratitude to GBTI for its support of what is expected to become one of the largest schools’ cricket competitions in Guyana.
“As we bowl off the Beharry Group Boys Schools Under-19 Cricket Competition, it is the first of its kind in Guyana, and we’re expecting 80 school teams from across the country to participate in this tournament,” Peters said.
He noted that adverse weather conditions along the coast have forced the postponement of several matches originally scheduled for Georgetown, Berbice, and the East Coast Demerara areas. However, the competition is set to commence this weekend with fixtures in the Essequibo region.
“The tournament will definitely start this weekend, but we will see a soft start because the matches will be played in the Essequibo area. I can tell you the sun is lovely up there,” Peters remarked.
Peters also highlighted the strong collaboration between the Petra Organisation and the Ministry of Education in organising the tournament and used the opportunity to commend GBTI for its continued contribution to national development.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Education and the Petra Organization, we would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to one of Guyana’s premier banking institutions for coming on board to support this tournament,” he said.
He further congratulated GBTI on its milestone anniversary celebrations, noting the institution’s longstanding presence and impact in Guyana.
The inaugural competition is designed to provide a platform for young cricketers to showcase their talent while fostering greater participation in the sport at the secondary school level.
Action in the opening round will begin in the Essequibo zone with several matches scheduled for 09:30h.
At the Pomona Ground, Aurora Secondary will face Johanna Cecilia Secondary, while Abram Zuil Secondary will take on Cotton Field Secondary at the Joe Jagmohan Ground.
Another highly anticipated encounter will see Santa Rosa Secondary battle Waramuri Secondary at the Sheba Ground in an all-hinterland clash. Charity Secondary will also be in action against Anna Regina Secondary at the Joe Jagmohan Ground.
Meanwhile, in the West Demerara Zone, West Demerara Secondary will come up against Patentia Secondary.