The Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) have departed local shores for Antigua and Barbuda, where they will begin their campaign in the revamped Cricket West Indies Regional Four-Day Championship, a missive from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) indicated on Thursday.
Ahead of their departure, the team met with the President of GCB, Bissoondyal Singh, who offered words of encouragement and guidance as the defending champions prepare to embark on their title defence.
The GCB subtly noted in the communication, “The squad, which was submitted by the Ramnaresh Sarwan-led selection panel, received unanimous approval from the full executive committee of the Guyana Cricket Board, underscoring the Board’s strong confidence in the composition and balance of the team.”
In his address to the departing team, President Singh urged the players to uphold the proud legacy of Guyana cricket, emphasising discipline, unity, and consistency as the foundation for continued success.
“You are not just representing yourselves; you are representing an entire nation that believes in your ability. Wear the badge with pride, play with heart, and remain disciplined in every session and every moment on the field. It is consistency, not flashes of brilliance, that wins championships,” President Singh stated.
“As defending champions, you must expect every opponent to come hard at you – that is the true test of a champion. Embrace the challenge, trust in your preparation, and stand united as a team. If you remain focused and committed, there is every reason why this title should stay right here in Guyana.”
The team will be under the guidance of Head Coach Ryan Hercules and his management team.
Hercules acknowledged concerns surrounding the team’s batting following two practice matches but expressed confidence in the squad’s experience and preparation.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Captain Imlach expressed confidence in the team’s readiness and approach: “We are mentally ready and confident. We just need a few net sessions to get things going in terms of cricket. We understand how we want to play four-day cricket, and that’s what we’ll focus on.”
The 13-man squad will be led by Tevin Imlach, with Matthew Nandu serving as Vice Captain.
The squad includes Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Raymond Perez, Kevlon Anderson, Kemol Savoury, Keemo Paul, Gudakesh Motie, Veerasammy Permaul, Richie Looknauth, Nial Smith, Isai Thorne and Zeynul Ramsammy.
Guyana will face the Windward Islands Volcanoes in the opening round from April 12–15 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. The teams will meet again in Round Two from April 19–22 at the Antigua Recreation Ground, and Round Three from April 26–29 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.
The playoffs, featuring the top three teams, are scheduled for May 10–20 in Antigua.
The GCB extended its best wishes to the team for a successful campaign as they begin their title defence, carrying the pride and expectations of the nation.
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