NBS 15-team tourney bowls off this weekend

– Fast bowling initiative included

The Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) on Wednesday launched their 6th edition of the New Building Society (NBS) sponsored 40-over Second-Division competition, expected to bowl off this weekend with some 15 teams.

Divided into two Zones, the teams participating include; defending champions Transport Sports Club (TSC), Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), Everest Cricket Club, Sophia, Diplomats, Police, Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Third Class, Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC), Muslim Youth Organisation, Gandhi Youth Organisation, University of Guyana, Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) and Ace Warriors.
GCA President Roger Harper, along with members of the association officially launched the competition at the company’s North Road and Avenue of the Republic location. According to Harper, the competition will be used to target the upcoming crop of players adding that it also works well for general development of the youths.
Harper, an ex-West Indies all-rounder said the tournament apart from being used to scout talent is expected to bring players from across the country together. “While the tournament is for clubs in Georgetown, it also attracts players from other areas around the county, far as Essequibo.”
He further credited the track record of the competition, pointing out that a number of cricketers who have made strides nationally and internationally were products of the initiative, with four lads; Ashmead Nedd, Raymond Perez, Joshua Persaud and Bhaskar Yadram currently preparing for the West Indies Under-19 training camp in December.
According to GCA’s Chairman of Competitions Committee, Shawn Massiah, an average of 16 overs per game must be bowled by fast bowlers as part of the tourney’s playing conditions. NBS Chairman Floyd McDonald said the company’s support was easily given as they have seen the need to develop cricket and sports in general, further wishing the GCA best of luck in their endeavors.