The cricket fraternity has been plunged into mourning with the passing of popular coach, umpire and scorer Daniel Richmond, who met his demise in an accident involving a mini-bus and a Tacoma in Georgetown on Sunday.
Richmond, an active player in the 70s and 80s, was also a Sports Officer attached to the National Sports Commission. On Wednesday, the Guyana Cricket Board issued a statement, expressing great sadness at the passing of the long-serving cricket official.
Below is the full statement.
“The executives and staff of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) have learnt with great sadness of the passing of local cricket coach, umpire and GCB scorer, Mr. Daniel Richmond on May 21, 2017. We extend our condolences to his family, friends, umpires and the entire cricket fraternity. He was always a pleasant individual, ready to assist anyone in whatever way he can. His demise is a great loss to the members of the executive cricket establishment.
Mr. Richmond has given his loyal service to the game of cricket and has conducted numerous coaching sessions for the Guyana Cricket Board under the Primary and Secondary school coaching education programme with special emphasis in the Mahaica/Mahaichony locations.
As it relates to umpiring, he has assisted in the mentorship and empowerment of potential umpires and scorers. His contribution to the coaching education program has been highly appreciated and has impacted the youths positively, especially at the kiddy cricket level. Mr. Richmond served for many years as a coach with the National Sports Commission.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time we share their pain and grief. May his soul rest in eternal peace!”
News Room Sport Editor Avenash Ramzan, who would have interacted with Richmond on a number of his coaching programmes on the East Coast of Demerara, also expressed deep sadness at the passing.
“Mr. Daniel Richmond made a significant contribution to cricket through umpiring, coaching and scoring. He also played the game decades ago. Anyone who encountered this gentleman would tell you that he was always willing to offer his services whenever cricket is played.
Mr. Richmond was more keen on grassroot development, and his numerous coaching programmes, facilitated by the National Sports Commission and the Guyana Cricket Board, ensured that the fundamentals of the game were being passed down to young aspiring cricketers.
Mr. Richmond and coach Latchman Yadram are known for their work with young cricketers on the East Coast of Demerara, and they would usually engage the press to have coverage of their coaching clinics. Many a times Mr. Richmond would call and say “Tek down dis lil ting hay. Dis is about dem lil chilren; is dem we ga groom fam now.”
He was very enthused about sharing his knowledge with young cricketers, and many outstanding players who have emerged from this land have passed through his hands. Mr. Richmond quietly made a contribution to the game and his passing will certainly leave a void. R.I.P big man!”
