The government of Guyana yesterday recognized the five Guyanese cricketers who etched their names in the history books, during the respective International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Under-19 and Women’s World Cup tournament.
The West Indies U19 trio of Captain Shimron Hetmyer, Vice-captain Keemo Paul and wicket-keeper Tevin Imlach along with Shemaine Campbell and Tremayne Smartt, were honored by Director of Sports Christopher Jones, Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Ivan Persaud, Minister within the Ministry of Education Nicolette Henry and executives of Digicel.
President of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Drubahadur, another guest present at the ceremony held at the 704 Sports Bar and Lounge, thanked the players for their contribution in making Guyana a part of history.
He also added that the GCB will be honoring the Guyana Jaguars, the current Regional Four Day champs on Monday evening at another forum.
Minister Hughes during her speech said she was especially happy to be a part of the thanksgiving, saying: “We thank you for making each and every Guyanese proud, you are all ambassadors.
On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, Hughes awarded the players a free trip each to Kaieteur Falls as she sent out special thanks to the pair of ladies who she said are role models for women.
“I want to single out the women because of you the women of Guyana are proud”.
Digicel, who had already made presentations to the trio of U19 players a month back, provided the five cricketers with phones among other items.
Jacqueline James, Marketing Manager of Digicel said it was especially important to embrace the strides made by two females. “We must celebrate our women because they are role models of the highest levels start and we thinking that this is the start of something great”.
Apart from the hampers compliments of Digicel, the Guyanese players received numerous other gifts some of which include; plaques, gold jewellery while the ladies received bouquets of flowers.
Wrapping up the ceremony, Minster Henry dubbed the occasion as joyous and monumental. “I’m proud of the occasion because we have a lot to celebrate as we go by the 50th anniversary themes, “Reflection, Celebration and Inspiration.
“This could not have happened at a better time, thanks for putting Guyana on the map in a positive way. Job well done!” She ended.
