– Leading Guyana to a second straight title with purpose and integrity
Guyana have claimed their fifteenth West Indies Championship title, clinching first innings’ honours in their drawn final-round encounter against Trinidad & Tobago Red Force at Queen’s Park Oval.
Tevin Imlach has now won back- to- back titles as Captain during his first two years in the role
Credit must deservingly be given to Tevin Imlach, who has emerged as the new generation leader for Guyana, after taking over from Leon Johnson; which was a daunting proposition, given Johnson’s legacy of six titles, including five in succession from 2015 to 2019.
Born and raised in Georgetown, Imlach has already carved his own space in the pantheon of Guyanese cricket captains. Having guided his country to back-to-back titles, he joins the ranks of Sir Clive Lloyd, Carl Hooper, and Roger Harper, each of whom has led Guyana to two regional four-day crowns.
Amid the celebration of this outstanding achievement, a moment of gloom crept into the Harpy Eagles’ parade when two players were heavily fined for altering the condition of the ball. It has been a rare stain on what was otherwise a dominant and disciplined campaign, and for captain Tevin Imlach, the disappointment was deep and personal.
“Obviously, it is very disappointing, because we played six rounds of good cricket, no issues, and you come into the final game in a very good position, and for something like that to come up is very disappointing; not only for me, but for the team in general,” he expressed. “It would’ve clouded everything, cast a shadow over everything we did prior to the final encounter, everything we achieved and worked for in the tournament.”
He continued, “This is not something you want to see, and with the options available to the players, they chose to accept it with the aim of moving forward.”
In distancing himself from the incident, the 28-year-old skipper added, “I’ve built my entire career through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to playing the game the right way. Cricket has always meant more to me than just winning; it’s about integrity, discipline, and respect for the sport.”
Imlach’s words not only represented his personal ethos, but also served as a reminder of the spirit in which the game should be played. His words represent a conviction that has come to define his leadership.
Hailed as “Captain Fantastic” by teammates, Imlach had missed the opening round due to West Indies duties in Pakistan. Upon his return, he lit up the tournament with 538 runs at an average of 68.25.
He scored three centuries, two of those coming in moments of crisis. One was notably against the Leeward Islands Hurricanes, where his crucial 123 helped secure a draw and keep the Harpy Eagles atop the points table going into the final round.
Behind the stumps, he was equally impressive in recording 20 dismissals — 16 catches and four stumpings — in a tidy display of wicketkeeping.
Over time, the victories have become sweeter for the 2016 U-19 World Cup winner, and 2025’s result is no exception.
“This title ranks very high for me; because to win a four-day title is not an easy job, and to actually come out and win this once again, it is special,” he shared. “We are getting accustomed to winning them, but every year gives a different challenge, something new and a better feeling once we win.”
Imlach fulfilled a childhood dream in Multan when he became the 341st player to represent the West Indies in Test cricket. Now he offers himself as a role model to aspiring wicketkeeper-batters throughout the Caribbean.
“Enjoy cricket. Enjoy the game. Enjoy practice. Enjoy the process of getting to a higher level; and enjoying the journey and what it entails, and not just the destination,” he explained.
“It’s not just about playing Test cricket; it is about the work you do to get there. And if you can find joy in practice and getting better every single day, it makes the moment even more special when you get to the ultimate prize,” he explained.
With a deep reservoir of self-belief and a clear vision of cricket’s greater values, Tevin Imlach is not just winning titles; he’s building a legacy. (Adapted from CWI)
