GCB mourns passing of former Guyana cricketer Sydney Matthews

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has expressed sadness at the passing of former national cricketer Sydney Jackson Matthews, who represented Guyana in a first-class career spanning 18 years.
Matthews played for Guyana from 1970 to 1988, and was part of regional championship-winning teams in 1971, 1977, and 1987.
He was also among the first Guyanese cricketers selected for the inaugural West Indies Under-19 tour of the United Kingdom in 1970. Two years later, he represented the West Indies President’s XI against New Zealand.
Matthews began his career as a fast bowler before successfully making the transition to leg-spinner. His best first-class bowling performance was six wickets for 76 runs.

GCB President Bissoondyal Singh described Matthews as a gifted and versatile cricketer who represented Guyana with pride and distinction.
“His successful transition from fast bowling to leg-spin demonstrated his exceptional ability and determination,” Singh said.
“His contribution to three regional championship-winning teams and his pioneering representation at the West Indies Under-19 level will forever remain part of Guyana’s rich cricketing history.”
Singh added that Matthews’ passing was a significant loss to the cricket fraternity in Guyana and the wider Caribbean.
During his career, Matthews played alongside several of Guyana’s and the West Indies’ most celebrated cricketers and earned respect for his discipline, commitment, and professionalism.
He also contributed to domestic cricket while representing the East Bank, Demerara Cricket Club, and the Guyana Defence Force.
His cricketing legacy continued through his son, Ron Matthews, who also represented Guyana and the West Indies at the Under-19 level.
The GCB extended condolences to Matthews’ family, relatives, friends, former teammates, and members of the cricket fraternity.