LBI facility in full flow after majority commencement of phase one

ꟷ Shallow excited about GCB’s development

By Brandon Corlette

The ultimate La Bonne Intention (LBI) cricket facility is close to its completion, while the second phase of the floodlights and net-practice area will commence shortly. This Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)- constructed facility will provide an all-inclusive training and development centre to foster the growth and enhancement of the skill and potential of cricketers.

Upon completion, this will be the second accredited venue to host Regional matches.
During Cricket West Indies (CWI) Vice-President Dr Kishore Shallow’s feature address at the recently concluded GCB Awards Ceremony, he disclosed that he had the opportunity to visit the LBI Facility.
“I had the privilege of touring the LBI facility. This project excites me because, in times of financial instability in the region, GCB can manage such an undertaking to establish this LBI facility”, Dr Shallow disclosed.
As Guyana Jaguars continue to be a leading force in Regional cricket, especially in the four-day arena, with five consecutive championship wins, this academy-like facility will benefit the players. Shallow, during his address, had signalled the other Caribbean countries to take note and see GCB’s development as a feasible model to follow and adopt.
“We at CWI rely on territorial boards to be resourceful as Sanasie (Anand Sanasie) and the GCB have been with the LBI project”, Shallow echoed.
This LBI facility signifies advancement of cricket overall. This facility is being housed at LBI Community Centre, which also houses the Chetram Singh Centre of Excellence, more known as the cricket hostel where cricketers prepare for tournaments and are accommodated for camps and inter-county tournaments, among other cricket-related activities.
The cricket hostel that was officially opened in 2010 consists of a well-equipped gym, an indoor net facility, a lecture room, and other amenities including full air-conditioning. This facility has, over the years, proven essential for cricket development, as cricket continues to rise in Guyana.
The Guyana Jaguars are seen as a dominant force in Regional cricket, especially in the four-day arena; from the Cricket Guyana Inc (CGI) Academy Programme, where players are involved in intense training from Monday to Thursday throughout the year and are given contracts, to the LBI upgrade, these are progressive signs.
Guyana Times Sport visited the LBI Community Centre in the past week and witnessed the significant progress being made in construction of this facility. The stylish players’ pavilion is completed, with PVC ceilings inserted, modernized windows, with a hall in place for presentation purposes.
The caretaker’s home has also been completed, while the playing area has been filled and levelled, with a solid drainage system inserted.
This upgraded facility will aid in the development of the game in Guyana, and perhaps the entire Caribbean in the near future.