GCB announces 14-man squad for Regional U-19 in Antigua

Following weeks of preparation, the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has finalised a “balanced 14-member squad” for the upcoming Cricket West Indies (CWI) Rising Stars Under-19 Championship, scheduled to run from July 9 to 27 in Antigua and Barbuda.

The squad, which departs local shores on July 9, will be spearheaded by captain Parmeshwar Ram, with the versatile Romario Ramdeholl serving as his deputy.

The batting and bowling resources feature the likes of Shamar Apple, Adrian Hetmyer, Justin Dowlin, and Yannick Newton, as well as Dhanesh Persaud, Khush Seegobin, Joshua Budhram, and Gilbert Griffith.

Feaaz Baksh, Micah Amsterdam, Jonathan Mentore, and Darwin Joseph round out the 14-man contingent.

While the primary objective is silverware, the immediate focus is a gruelling five-match group stage itinerary. Guyana opens their campaign on July 11 with a high-stakes encounter against Trinidad & Tobago, a fixture that routinely sets the tone for their regional aspirations.

From there, the assignments arrive thick and fast: a July 13 clash against Jamaica, followed by an equally demanding test against Barbados on July 15.

The preliminary round concludes with back-to-back matches against the Leeward Islands on July 18 and the Windward Islands on July 20, with all matches scheduled to start at 9:30 AM.

Overseeing the technical operations is head coach Kumar Bishundial, supported by assistant coach Antony Adams and manager Nazeer Mohamed.

Reflecting on a rigorous encampment period, Bishundial expressed immense satisfaction with how the squad weathered external disruptions to hit their developmental markers.

“The players have worked extremely hard throughout the encampment and have shown tremendous commitment despite a few challenges with the weather,” Bishundial said.

“We have selected a talented and balanced group, and I believe they have what it takes to represent Guyana with pride. The expectation is to play disciplined cricket, compete in every match and give ourselves the best opportunity to be successful.”

Adams echoed that optimism, pointing to a cohesive dressing-room environment as a potential catalyst for on-field success.

“The response from the players has been excellent. They’ve embraced the work, supported each other and shown a real desire to learn. As a coaching staff, we’re excited about what this group can achieve, and we have every confidence they’ll give a good account of themselves at the regional championship.” (Modified Press Release) 

Guyana Under-19 Squad: Parmeshwar Ram (captain), Romario Ramdeholl (vice-captain), Shamar Apple, Adrian Hetmyer, Justin Dowlin, Yannick Newton, Dhanesh Persaud, Khush Seegobin, Joshua Budhram, Gilbert Griffith, Feaaz Baksh, Micah Amsterdam, Jonathan Mentore and Darwin Joseph.