[www.inewsguyana.com] – Majority of respondents to iNews’ weekly poll is of the view that the local cricketing community should reassess its relationship with the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) in light of the country’s denial of a test match.
For the week June 1 to June 8, iNews readers were asked: “Do you think that the Guyanese cricketing community should reassess its relationship with the West Indies Cricket Board in light of the country’s denial of a test match?” to which 68% voted yes, 30% said no and a mere two percent were undecided.
The WICB denied Guyana from hosting the test match against New Zealand at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence claiming that there was too much interference by the government in local cricket with the recently approved Cricket Administration Bill.
This view was rejected by President Donald Ramotar who noted that the government’s only intention was to ensure local cricket was more accountable taking into consideration the wild accusations of corruption that was hurled against the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB).
At a news conference on Saturday, June 07, President Ramotar said there is no justifiable reason for shifting the venue for the match to the Kensington Oval, Barbados; adding that the WICB ‘s arrogance is unbelievable as he pointed to the significant investments government have made in this regard.
Ramotar said, “We have bigger politics to deal with than to interfere in cricket politics.”
He explained that the only role the Sport Minister plays is in the setting up of the Board after which the Minister’s role will cease. He reasoned that the action of the WICB is also a threat to Regional Integration.
“I see it as a slap in the face and an attack on Regional Integration.”
I think that the Guyana government should reassess it’s position with the WICB, it is a blow to Guyana to not have a cricket match.In my view , the Government of itself is also corrupt in Guyana, is like pot telling kettle your bottom is black.