Victorious U19 Women’s team met with hero’s welcome
The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) was a buzz of activity on Sunday afternoon as preparations were made to receive the National Under-19 Women’s cricket team who were crowned champions of the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Rising Stars T20 Championships on Saturday.
Among the dignitaries there to welcome the championship-winning team were Local Government and Regional Development Minister Sonia Parag; Assistant Director of Sports (ADoS) Franklin Wilson and Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) President Bissoondyal Singh.
Local Government and Regional Development Minister Sonia Parag addresses the gatAhering
Following the cultural reception filled with drums and dancing, GCB President Singh labelled the team’s achievement as monumental, being that the championship title was a first for Guyana.
“This is a monumental achievement as it marks the first time in history the team has claimed this prestigious title. You’ve made us proud. The recent Under-19 cricket tournament has marked a significant milestone in the history of Guyanese cricket. This tournament has not only showcased the incredible talent of young, female cricketers, but also set the stage for the future of women’s cricket in Guyana,” Singh shared with the gathering at the CJIA, which included family, friends, other stakeholders, and well-wishers.
Delivering the feature remarks was Minister Parag in place of Subject Minister Charles Ramson Jr. Parag, while expressing her pride at the team’s feat, revealed plans that Ramson Jr has for the team’s development.
Prior to their return home, Guyana were presented with their championship trophy by CWI Vice President and Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) President, Azim Bassarath
“I want to say to you, specifically, how honoured I am to be here, welcoming a team of young, female cricketers that have done us so proudly. The investment that you have made in your own talent, your own ability and capability, has done this country beyond proud. And we want you to know that, we want you to understand that,” Parag remarked.
Guyana’s Championship- winning Under 19 Women’s team were warmly received on Sunday afternoon
The Local Government Minister went on to say, “The Minister wants you to know, that’s Minister Charles Ramson wants you to know that even though he’s not here, he plans to engage you further on how the Ministry can collaborate with you to further develop your talent and to push you beyond where you are now. Although you have gone out there, you’ve done yourselves proud and I can’t say it enough.”
On Saturday last, Guyana’s Women pulled off a five-wicket victory over Leeward Islands’ Women in the CWI Rising Stars final, after being some 23 runs ahead under the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern (DLS) method, when rain halted the game in its second half.
