Guyana’s global image in focus again for ExxonMobil Guyana GSL

There’s a lot in store for the second edition of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 to be held this year, Director Jamie Stewart says.
In a sitdown with Guyana Times Sport, Stewart discussed plans in the pipeline for this year’s tournament which is likely to see amplified marketing, not only for the competition, but also Guyana.
With one of the main aims of the inaugural edition being to ‘put Guyana on the map’ as a destination for top-tier, international sporting events, Stewart divulged to this publication that this has not changed, as they anticipate drawing in more fans.
Responding to Guyana Times Sports’ inquiries, Stewart divulged, “The thinking behind the event has always been, this is Guyana projecting itself to the world. Obviously, Guyana is in the news these days, there’s a lot of attention coming to the country anyway, because of the resource wealth that’s been uncovered and whatnot. And really, I think you could look at the Global Super League as kind of this global advertisement for Guyana, showing a dynamic and progressive and upwardly mobile country to the world.
“Part of that is, you know, and it’s incumbent upon us, as tournament organisers, is to fill the stadiums, as you said. And you know, we really hope the fans and people of Guyana, come out in mass to present that image of the country to the world,” the GSL T20 Director went on to share.

As such, Stewart explained how important the timing of this year’s tournament was, noting that it can change for next year, the third instalment.
The ExxonMobil Guyana GSL Director explained, “We found a bit last year that we were straight off the back of the CPL [Caribbean Premier League] finals and then running into Christmas, you know, we were kind of squeezed between those two things. I think people had their Christmas and family commitments and Christmas parties and whatnot, so we wanted to find some dates that had a bit more clear oxygen for the event, where the event could really become the focal point of the action here in Georgetown. I think, our ideal world, we also want to be as far away from CPL as possible to create two spikes of activity throughout the year. This year, July seemed to be a good window where we could get a very good group of players and good group of teams.”
“Whether we stay in July or try and move a bit earlier next year, that remains to be seen. But, yeah, very, very happy with the window this year,” he added.
Though it will be more than a month before the tournament bowls off, the ExxonMobil Guyana GSL is already taking a closer look at its entertainment aspect, aspiring to emulate the ‘biggest party in sport’ brand.

“It’s premature to announce anything yet, but yes, we are looking to build a complementary set of entertainment activities and culture activities, because we also, you know, we’re inviting players from all around the world and their fans from all around the world coming here. We want them to be able to have other experiences too, of Georgetown and Guyana,” Stewart explained.
He added with a laugh, “But yes, more to announce on that shortly. Look, the CPL is known as ‘the biggest party in sport’. GSL is the other ‘biggest party in sport’.”
The ExxonMobil GSL T20 will run from July 10 to July 18 in Guyana, featuring five of the best T20 franchises from around the world. Defending champions Rangpur Riders, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Australia’s Hobart Hurricanes, Central Stags out of New Zealand and Dubai Capitals will go head- to- head for the coveted title.