Norton’s call to scrap GSL T20 ‘reckless, ill-informed’

Dear Editor,
The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has taken note of the recent public statements made by APNU Presidential Candidate Mr. Aubrey Norton regarding the potential scrapping of the Global Super League (GSL) T20 tournament should his party assume office following the upcoming elections.
The GCB finds Mr. Norton’s comments, particularly as a presidential aspirant, to be not only ill-informed and fundamentally misguided, but also lacking in sound judgment and depth of understanding.
It is important to clarify that this is not a government-run programme.
Rather, the GSL is a privately owned and managed initiative, fully funded by the private sector, and sponsored principally by ExxonMobil, along with other respected corporate partners.
Moreover, the GSL is chaired by none other than the legendary Sir Clive Lloyd, one of the most iconic and respected figures in the history of international cricket.
His leadership brings global credibility, experience, and stature to the league—making it a powerful force for cricket development, professionalism, and international engagement.
This means that no political administration—current or future—has the authority to discontinue or dismantle the tournament, as it falls entirely outside the jurisdiction of the state. Any suggestion to do so demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the legal, commercial, and operational frameworks that govern such international sporting ventures.
Beyond ownership and leadership, the Global Super League is a transformational investment in Guyana’s sporting and economic landscape. It creates elite opportunities for local and regional players, facilitates international exposure, and brings substantial economic benefits through sports tourism, global broadcast rights, job creation, hospitality, and ancillary business growth.
The GSL has already placed Guyana firmly on the global sporting map, and its long-term potential for elevating Guyanese talent and branding Guyana as a premier sports destination is undeniable.
To suggest its termination is not only reckless and myopic, but an affront to the aspirations of young athletes, the private sector partners who invested in good faith, and the many stakeholders working tirelessly to build a modern cricketing legacy in Guyana.
The Guyana Cricket Board is proud of this mega investment, and we are confident that all of Guyana shares in that pride. The GSL is more than just a cricket league—it is a platform for national excellence, economic opportunity, and international respect. Guided by the steady hand of Sir Clive Lloyd and backed by world-class partners, it is destined to become a pillar of Guyana’s modern sporting identity.
The GCB reaffirms its unwavering support for the Global Super League and will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure its success, sustainability, and its role in shaping a brighter future for cricket and country.”

Sincerely,
Guyana Cricket Board