‘Monumental achievement’ – GCB hails returning female Under-19 champions

The national female Under-19 cricket team returned to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on Sunday afternoon to a warm welcome from the members of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), the National Sports Commission (NSC), and the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag.

The Realanna Grimmond-led Guyana team made history on Saturday, winning the Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Female Under-19 T20 title for the first time at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad and Tobago.

More so, they lost one match in the preliminary round.

GCB President Bissoondyal Singh congratulated the players and hailed the achievement as monumental for the country, etching a new chapter in history and motivating future stars.

“It has marked a significant milestone in the history of Guyana’s cricket as this tournament not only showcased the talent of young female cricketers but also set the stage for the future of women’s cricket in Guyana.”

The GCB highlighted that their investments in academy programmes are a testament to the wide cross-section of geographical areas where the players reside.

More so, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Sonia Parag noted, “The government is proud to foster development for youth and sport and foster the talent that you have within you so you can reach the sky.”

Minister Parag indicated that Minister Charles Ramson Jr., who was unavoidably absent, will engage each player to understand specifically how the Ministry can assist their individual upskilling.

This has been a common aspect of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport regarding returning athletes who have been successful at major championships.

Three players from the squad – Trisha Hardat, Realanna Grimmond, and Danielle Manns have been selected for the West Indies Under-19 squad.

SQUAD: Realeanna Grimmond (Captain), Naomi Barkoye, Niya Latchman (Vice-captain), Tilleya Madramootoo, Trisha Hardat, Laurene Williams, Denelle Lindee, Crystal Durant, Brianna Samaroo, Shonette Belgrave, Tiea Isaacs, Danellie Manns, Tremaine Marks and Latoya Williams.

Manager: Treymayne Smartt; Coach: Clive Grimmond