The PPP/C government is set to build a state-of-the-art cricket academy, which will be headed by the legendary Sir Clive Lloyd. President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently unveiled this initiative as part of a broader strategy to transform Guyana into a hub for producing some of the world’s finest fast bowlers, spinners, and batsmen.
During a distribution exercise for youths at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, President Ali highlighted the government’s commitment to helping young people realize their full potential through several initiatives, including the establishment of the cricket academy. He emphasized the importance of nurturing talent, stating, “When you’re talented and gifted, you have to sacrifice more… That is the only way that you will realise the full potential of that talent and gift.”
In addition to the academy, the government is planning to construct various cricket facilities across the country, all equipped with top-tier sporting amenities. The President also announced that Guyana will host international cricket matches at the new Palmyra Stadium in Region Six in 2025 and has requested to host the entire women’s tournament for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) at the Anna Regina Stadium in Region Two the same year.
The cricket stadium in Region 10 is expected to be completed by the end of the year, and over 250 cricket grounds across the country are set to receive significant investments. The indoor facility at the National Stadium in Providence will also be operationalized soon.
Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., reiterated the government’s dedication to investing in youth development. He urged young people to make the necessary sacrifices to achieve greatness on the global stage. “It is now for you to back yourself 100 percent too by going out there and giving your best effort so that you could make yourself, your family, your country, and the world proud,” Minister Ramson emphasized.
The cricket academy will be built on 20 acres of land at Good Hope, on the East Coast of Demerara, with land preparations set to begin soon. Minister Ramson noted that the facility will attract cricketers from around the region and beyond, offering them some of the best coaching and facilities available anywhere.
In the coming weeks, the government will also launch specific initiatives for other sports, including football, basketball, table tennis, squash, volleyball, and badminton, with new facilities and equipment to be distributed nationwide.
