-GCB pledges support for rebuilding
Former national cricketer Rohan Sarjoo was elected President of the East Bank Cricket Association (EBCA) last evening, when it held its first election for three years at the Providence Sports Club, East Bank Demerara.
Sarjoo and his entire executive were elected to serve for the next year unopposed by the delegates of the 13 EBCA affiliates, while Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Chetram Singh pledged his support in rebuilding cricket in the district.
In his inaugural speech as President, Sarjoo expressed gratitude for those who placed their confidence in him to oversee the progress of East Bank cricket and he called on the clubs to offer their support. “Together we can make things happen. This is not a one-man show, but an all-of-us show. Thus, I am asking for your support all the way,” he said, adding that even if he is not president he would continue to finance cricket.
According to Sarjoo, moving forward would require teamwork and not only at the executive, but also at the club level as well. “I want to inform you that I don’t intend to be a laid back president, but a pro-active one,” he added.
He also informed that he has sought and received confirmation from five business persons for the sponsorship of tournaments. One of the sponsors, he said, is waiting on better weather to initiate a 20/20 tournament which will coincide with the Goodwood tournament already underway.
Meanwhile, Singh applauded the members of the affiliate clubs for their show of support, saying it showed they wanted to get things going again with regards to cricket in the area. “As president of the GCB, I will try to get the Board involved in some form or the other, with the development of cricket on the East Bank of Demerara. This vast turnout by you the club members shows that you are eager to get cricket on the East Bank of Demerara up and running in an organized manner,” he said.
Singh informed Sarjoo and the executives that the road ahead would not be easy, especially with there being 14 teams and only three grounds. “There is lots of cricket being played at various levels in Guyana and with only three grounds and 14 teams your task will be a difficult one and how well you handle it will speak volumes for you at the end of the day. I say to you tonight, everything is legal; the court matters have been squashed. Let us get on with the rebuilding of cricket on the East Bank of Demerara,” said Singh.
GCB Secretary Anand Sanasie performed the duties of Returning Officer for the elections, which lasted for half an hour. Johnny Azeez and Ronald Jaisingh were elected as first and second vice-president, respectively, while Sean Bandoo and Nigel Bisoo will perform the duties of Secretary and Treasurer.
