Heyliger Academy 40-over showdown set for Suddie this weekend

Exciting cricket action is highly anticipated this weekend as the Dillon Heyliger-sponsored Cricket Academy 40-over competition continues at the Suddie Ground, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
The four-day tournament is being organised and managed by veteran cricket coach Forbes Daniels. Last weekend, at the same venue, Daniel Dass (Blues) recorded back-to-back victories over Royden Morris (Reds).
According to Daniels, the initiative aims to expose young, aspiring cricketers from the region while providing competitive “stimulation matches” as they strive to represent their county, country, and ultimately the West Indies.
Daniels expressed satisfaction with the first two matches, noting that the youngsters played with enthusiasm and dedication.
“I was totally impressed by the way these young cricketers batted and bowled, and this is the aim – to up your game, to apply the basics and play proper and competitive cricket from a very early age,” Daniels, who represented Essequibo at the Senior Inter-County level, stated.

He emphasised that the tournament provides a valuable opportunity for young players to participate in meaningful competition and develop their skills.
Over the past six years, Daniels has been conducting coaching clinics at the same facility, integrating them with the academy’s ongoing programmes. His focus remains on honing the players’ skills and improving every aspect of their game.
With technical coaching and regular match exposure, the 64-year-old certified coach is confident the players will continue to grasp the fundamentals and make steady progress.
“I want to see them play the game regularly; the Academy is there for a purpose, and to have players from across Region Two, Pomeroon and Wakenaam coming out is pleasing, and they will accomplish their cricketing goals for sure,” Daniels added.
Among the standout performances last weekend was former Guyana Under-15 player Zandon Rose, who showcased his talent with a well-composed half-century. 10-year-old Dhannajai Anauge also impressed, claiming three wickets for 16 runs from six overs of leg-spin.
“As a coach, it is my duty to see the young cricketers get a chance to showcase their skills, and at the same time, the talent is exhibiting, and that is admirable; it is just that we have to keep working hard,” an enthusiastic Daniels disclosed.
Daniels has been assisted throughout the tournament by Level 1 coaches Daniel Dass and Royden Morris, with additional sessions held at the Zorg Ground on the Coast.
He also expressed sincere gratitude to Dillon Heyliger for his continued support. Daniels noted that with Heyliger’s sponsorship, the academy can sustain regular cricket activities and provide consistent opportunities for young players.
Heyliger, who hails from Suddie, once represented the Suddie Cricket Club at the junior level before playing for Essequibo and Guyana. He now resides in Canada and is a regular member of the Canadian National Cricket Team at the international level.
Zandon Rose capped off the weekend with two impressive half-centuries, underlining the depth of talent emerging from the academy. (Ravendra Madholall)