President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Friday launched the “Cricket in the Streets” initiative, a nationwide programme to identify young cricket talent in communities across Guyana and create pathways for their development.
The initiative, a collaboration among the government, E-Networks and the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), will utilise community cage pitches being established nationwide to engage youths through coaching, mentorship and talent identification activities.
In a broadcast on his social media platform, President Ali said the programme will target underserved communities and provide opportunities for young people who may not otherwise have a platform to showcase their abilities.
“One of the important parts of this initiative is going into unreached areas with Cricket in the Streets, so that these international talents can help us spot local talent and be able to put them into an academy and help them to develop their talent,” the president stated.
He explained that the programme will not be done in isolation but will be linked to the government’s planned Cricket Academy along the East Coast of Demerara, where promising players identified through the initiative can receive structured training and exposure to regional and international opportunities.
Chief Executive Officer of E-Networks, Vishok Persaud, said his company is committed to investing in Guyana’s youth and shares the vision of President Ali that sport is a powerful tool for national development.
He noted that cricket bats will be distributed in villages and communities to encourage participation and help young players realise their potential.
Meanwhile, Director of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League, Jamie Stewart, said the initiative aligns with the league’s vision of using cricket as a transformative force for Guyanese people.
He further emphasised that the programme will help nurture local talent, celebrate Guyana’s deep passion for cricket and strengthen opportunities for young athletes.
The “Cricket in the Streets” initiative forms part of the activities for Guyana’s 60th Independence Diamond Jubilee Anniversary. It is expected to bring international and regional cricket stars directly into communities to engage and inspire young people. [Department of Public Information]
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