Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 01-08-2023

The journey to prosperity for all

‘Puran Bros’ creates employment for over 550 persons

–– as company expands to satisfy Guyana’s developmental needs

ALTHOUGH Puran Bros.

Disposal Inc., is known as one of the nation’s leading waste disposal companies, the organisation has also expanded its services and has been working alongside the government to bring about development.

Owing to its expansion to the construction sector , Puran Bros has managed to successfully complete several governmental projects that they were allotted

Notably, it is one of several leading companies that have experienced massive growth, development and expansion in recent years

In keeping with the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government ’ s manifesto promise of making home ownership a reality for all Guyanese , during the past three years, the company has completed developmental works in several housing schemes

These include MetenMeer-Zorg Housing scheme, Stewartville, Anna Catherina, De Kendren, Buxton Charity and Onderneeming

Additionally , within 12 months, they have completed the lot awarded to Puran Brothers for the four - lane highway from Eccles to Man-

dela Avenue, which is aimed at easing traffic woes along the East Bank Corridor

Also, the company has accomplished a series of sea defence works, which include: The sea and river defence resilience project at Sisters

to Lonsdale Village , East Bank Berbice ; a Caribbean Development Bank Funded Project, Rip Rap Sea Defences at Anna Catherin -Phase 4, Rip-Rap Sea Defences at Anna Catherina - Phase 3-Lot 6 and Rip-Rap Sea Defences

at

Uitvlugt,-Phase 2-Lot 5

With these massive accomplishments being achieved , the company has also increased its employment In fact, there has been an increase in staff employment by 35 per cent from July, 2020, moving from 438 staff to 591 employees as of July, 2023

Also , Puran Bros . has invested in a series of new projects These include: Marine-Tug/Barge, which aims to transport aggregates to accomplish development works; the sand pit mining of sand and loam for construction projects , and the wharf fa -

cility , which serves as to accommodate materials for the development in Region

Three “The advent of the current administration created an enabling environment which is conducive to the establishment and promotion of strong government and private sector confidence for boosting national development.

This experience can serve as an excellent example of how much can be accomplished in promoting national growth and development in a conducive environment,” the company said.

The new Mandela Avenue to Eccles highway costs $2.6 billion New roads and bridges built by the PPP/C Government have shortened travel times and improved traffic flow.

Reparations must be paid

–– President Ali demands; says gov’t remains committed to struggle for reparations for the crime of African enslavement

–– urges Guyanese to reject any object that obstructs efforts to foster unity

PRESIDENT, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, during his Emancipation Day message, reiterated his commitment in the fight to attain reparations for African enslavement.

He also urged Guyanese to reject any object that poses as a hindrance to unity in the passage to having a “One Guyana.”

The President related: “My government remains committed to the struggle for reparations for the crime of African enslavement We demand that those who were complicit in and who profited from the trade in captive Africans and African enslavement pay just reparations.”

He remarked that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has been a key player in demanding reparations for the descendants of enslaved Africans

“Within the region, there has been a concerted effort to seek both the acknowledgement of and redress for the injustices inflicted as a result of the slave trade and slavery,” he said, adding that the recent European Union and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (EU-CELAC) summit symbolises a step forward since many acknowledged slavery as a crime against humanity.

Whilst noting that the 185th anniversary signifies the heroic resistance and resilience of the nation’s African fore parents, President Ali stressed that those ancestors laid the framework for Guyana’s freedom

“It is that freedom and African achievement which we celebrate today, Emancipation Day As we do so, let us never forget that this freedom was attained at a high price,” the Head of State said, adding that African enslavement represents , “ one of the darkest chapters in human history and a permanent stain on our civilisation.”

Although Emancipation in 1838 indicated the abolition of slavery, according to President Ali, Africans still faced a series of challenges and thus, Emancipation Day also gives recognition to the significant contribu-

tions of African-Guyanese; this includes the development of the peasantry, the emergence of the Village Movement, and the pioneering role of Africans in government, education among other areas in the national light

The Head of State boldly said: “Today, as we celebrate Emancipation Day 2023, let us pay tribute to those who endured unimaginable hardships, yet resisted Let us recall the sacrifices of our African ancestors who emerged strong and resolute in the face of such a barbarous system which gave no legal recognition to them Let us celebrate their contributions to shaping the Guyana we know today.”

In order to pay homage to the suffering that Afro-Guyanese endured, President Ali, while emphasising that his government is committed in ensuring a “One Guyana” for all Guyanese, said that the people need to come together and forge a more inclusive nation, one that will not be divided by politics or any other subject matter

He related: “They [Afro-Guyanese] along with all others will have a stake in national development and in the governance of our country The One Guyana agenda is aimed at building such a prosperous and inclusive future,” adding: “…I am mindful that there are forces inside and outside of our country who, for selfish reasons, continue to stoke division and engender fear , mistrust and suspicion As I have done in the past, I want to encourage Guyanese to continue to reject these attempts and expose the agitators of disunity and fear-mongering who threaten our nation’s cohesion and progress

“Emancipation Day was a milestone in our country’s history

As we celebrate the anniversary of this historic day, let us recommit to working to create a brighter future where resilience and achievements resonate in every corner of Guyana, inspiring generations, present and future, to unite in building a nation

President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali

that embodies the spirit of freedom, prosperity and inclusivity.”

THE FIGHT TO ATTAINING REPARATIONS!

In a previous address at a high-level meeting to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action that was held under the theme “Reparations, racial justice and equality for people of African descent,”

President Ali told world leaders: “Guyana is committed to gaining international reparations for the crime of African enslavement

Reparative justice must not only include a full and unconditional apology from those responsible and/or who benefitted from the transatlantic trade in captive Africans and their consequent enslavement, but must go

Construction of 210 modern young professional homes underway at LBI

THE government has commenced the construction of 210 young professional homes at the La Bonne Intention ( LBI ) Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara

The homes come in two styles ─ the single flat unit (bungalow) and the two-storey, similar to those constructed at Prospect and Providence on the East Bank of Demerara Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues said over 100 single-flat units and 100 two - storey units are being constructed

She disclosed that the construction of the homes is progressing smoothly , emphasising that the project is part of the government’s affordable housing programme, which allows individuals the opportunity to own homes in wholesome communities

“ By constructing homes within these communities , people will move in faster So , that will help with the overall plan that we have , to help people to move into communities and to occupy these areas faster,” Minister Rodrigues told the Department of Public Information (DPI) in

a recent interview

Additionally, the minister stated that the government is also looking to construct homes targeting low-income earners along the East Coast Efforts are underway to identify a suitable area for the housing project

“We want to do a similar type of development like we have at Diamond, where we have about 250 low-income homes I think it’s necessary here on the East Coast,” she explained

Minister Rodrigues reiterated that these initiatives will increase occupancy in

housing developments , as well as encourage individuals who were allocated house lots in the communities to occupy their lands

As part of the government ’ s turn - key initiative , over 1,500 homes are currently under construction in communities including LBI, Providence, Prospect, Great Diamond, Cummings Lodge, Hampshire / Williamsburg , Ordnance / Fortlands , and Amelia’s Ward

These homes are at different stages of completion, with some already handed over to families. (DPI)

beyond apology.”

The President said that it is in this regard that Guyana will continue to support efforts being made within the Caribbean Community to press for the convening of an international summit to demand reparative justice for the victims of the transatlantic slave trade, African enslavement, and its enduring effects

The Head of State also reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to the implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, and said that the country was pleased to join in adopting the Declaration

President Ali said that the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action is a comprehensive, action-oriented, document that proposes concrete measures to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance

He also emphasised that equality and non-discrimination are not only fundamental principles of international human rights and international humanitarian laws, but are also at the root of political, social and economic development

He said that as the global leaders collectively strive to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), they must be conscious that the overarching objectives of poverty eradication, protecting the planet and building a peaceful world cannot be achieved without addressing all forms of inequality

“Despite advances made over decades of struggle, racism and racial discrimination continue to be sources of conflicts and inequalities among people in all regions of the world

“I am proud to belong to a country that honours and celebrates its ethnic diversity Our people seamlessly participate in each other’s religious and cultural festivals and traditions. In many ways, we can be a wonderful example to the world,” President Ali said

China, Guyana target economic prosperity, poverty alleviation

outline several areas for enhanced co-operation

THE long - standing relationship between Guyana and China is on a remarkable path , as President , Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Chinese President Xi Jinping have not only reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, but also have made plans to increase their trading and investment portfolios.

In a joint statement issued by both nations, it was highlighted that discussions between Dr Ali and President Xi were fruitful, and opened doors for more collaboration between Guyana and China, in order to generate economic prosperity and alleviate poverty The two leaders also agreed on regular meetings between both states

Upon attending the open-

ing ceremony of the 31st FISU World University Games in Chengdu , President Ali and President Xi held in - depth discussions on bilateral , regional and international issues of mutual interest, and shared the commitment of the two countries to further deepen and broaden bilateral relations, as well as advance co-operation in the multilateral arena

Apart from applauding the signing of Memoranda of Understanding on the Establishment of an Investment and Economic Co-operation Working Group , they also discussed the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development , noting that 2023 represents a milestone for its achievement

With both Heads of State

recognising the importance of trade and investment as it relates to developing an economy, the statement said: “Both sides recognised the important value of trade and investment in deepening economic ties and committed to create a favourable business environment to facilitate bilateral trade and investment activities,” adding that they will explore the possibility of expansions in trade in a variety of industries, including agriculture, energy, mining, manufacturing, and services

President Ali also conveyed his appreciation for China’s support in Guyana’s economic development, especially in the infrastructural sector

Moreover , it was said that an analysis will be con-

ducted in order to see where collaboration can be done to bring about development , all while utilising China ’ s experience , expertise and financial capacity

As it relates to health, the improvements in healthcare collaboration were praised by both parties By exchanging knowledge and best practices, the two sides decided to broaden their co-operation in the healthcare industry

The Chinese medical personnel received praise from President Ali for their work in helping the people of Guyana

The Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative were all praised by the Guyanese side, according to the statement

The Guyana side also expressed its willingness to talk with the Chinese side and reach an agreement on the Joint Action Plan on Promotion of the Belt and Road Initiative in reference to the Memorandum of Understanding on Co-operation within the Framework of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21 st Century Maritime Silk Road Initiative, signed between the two sides on July 27, 2018

Additionally, the Chinese side commended President Ali for Guyana ’ s positive contributions to regional and global issues , particularly in the areas of food securi-

ty, regional integration, and co-operation between China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).

In addition to this, the Guyanese President expressed to the Chinese side his belief that both rich and developing nations must pay close attention to promoting food , climate , and energy security for sustained development Both sides noted that the Global Development Initiative was one framework that could support the implementation of this objective.

President , Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and China ’ s President Xi Jinping (Office of the President photo)

Guyana and BVI forge closer ties: Exploring investment prospects, financial services

By Cindy Parkinson

GUYANA ’ S exceptional growth rate and economic status as a powerhouse is attracting regional and global leaders, private investors, and entrepreneurs who are seeking to partner through investments in our oil-rich nation

In an official meeting on Monday with the Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips , who is currently performing the functions of President , the Deputy Premier , and Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), Lorna Smith; Junior Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Dr. Karl Dawson , and Ms Petrona Davies, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development met to discuss investment opportunities

Speaking exclusively with the Guyana Chronicle, the Deputy Premier explained that the primary aim of visiting Guyana is to give the government of the country, as well as the stakeholders, a better understanding of the BVI and what it offers

She also stated that it is also to explore the opportunities that would mutually benefit both countries, present the BVI’s financial services offerings, the advantages of using BVI corporate structures, and its expertise in facilitating global cross-border business

Mrs Smith explained she was profoundly grateful for the welcoming spirit extended by the Government of Guyana towards her and her delegation, noting that their openness and receptivity set a positive tone for their visit and also reflect the warm relationship between the two countries

According to her , “ we had a discussion with Prime Minister Mark Phillips in the absence of President Irfaan Ali , and he gave us some excellent insight in terms of the future of Guyana and its developments , as it relates to housing , transportation , and infrastructure Notwithstanding that Guyana has a fine university as well as other tertiary educational facilities, we shared with him the idea of the two countries collaborating so that Guyanese students go to the BVI, study, and benefit from our institution there given our excellent structure in financial services We also talked about the number of hotels

and hospitals that are currently being built and, of course, the positive growth and contributions that are coming from around the world , as well as the development in infrastructure.”

The Deputy Premier also related that they were very “ impressed ” to learn that Guyana’s Carbon Credit is worth a minimum of US$750 million up until 2030 Mrs Smith jokingly said, “With Guyana having the largest Carbon Credit in the Region I believe it was not just us that was envious, but countries around the world, I’m sure, were too, about that significant accomplishment.”

She also explained that she agrees with the British High Commissioner to Guyana , Jane Caroline Miller , that Guyana doesn’t just have oil; the government is using the funds to ensure that the development of Guyana is done in a “sustainable fashion.”

With a 16 - member delegation that comprises government executives, and members of the private sector, the Deputy Premier said, “the private sector has tremendous faith in the visit that they have come at their own expense to explore the possibilities for business There are a number of opportunities that we see, and we are beyond pleased with our visit and meeting with the government officials , and today is only our first day

We have been putting our money where our mouth is; we have one BVI IT company that has already established business in Guyana , and we also

have a company that has also established a brokerage firm in the insurance area in the country as well.”

TOURISM SECTOR

As it relates to the tourism sector in Guyana, Mrs. Lorna Smith added she believes that there are opportunities for collaboration with Guyana in tourism

“The tourism in Guyana is completely different from the BVI, its more eco-tourism, and while I am here, I am planning to take a trip or two to explore this beautiful country.”

However , Mrs Smith said , “ if we are going to get anywhere in developing tourism, in the Caribbean, we have to deal with the transportation problems in terms of getting to and from one country to another in a timely manner And we would have to find an easier way to travel throughout the region.”

The Deputy Premier suggested that Guyana and the BVI can collaborate in various areas by utilising each other’s knowledge and potential

She happily shares that the Guyanese are the third-largest population in the BVI The BVI group also had a meeting with Foreign Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Robert Persaud who discussed the government’s interest in promoting investment and expanding trade relations

He gave the delegation further information about current events in the nation and the President ’ s vision for the nation ’ s ongoing transformation

Prime Minister of Guyana, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who is currently performing the functions of President (second from left), the Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade of BVI, Lorna Smith (third from left); Junior Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr Karl Dawson (BVI), and Ms. Petrona Davies, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development of the BVI.

Together Let Us Move Forward

AS the calendar turns to August 1, the nation of Guyana takes a collective pause to commemorate Emancipation Day, a day of profound significance and historical remembrance

On this momentous occasion , we honour the struggles and triumphs of our enslaved African ancestors and their descendants, who fought valiantly against oppression to secure their freedom and pave the way for a brighter future

Emancipation Day is not merely a date on the calendar ; it represents the indomitable spirit of a people who emerged from the shackles of bondage to embrace liberty and equality

Emancipation Day in Guyana carries profound weight, as it marks the anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the British colonies in 1834 On that fateful day, thousands of enslaved Africans who had endured centuries of unspeakable suffering and dehumanisation, were finally granted their freedom

Although the road to emancipation was far from smooth, the tireless efforts of abolitionists and the tenacity of the enslaved individuals themselves eventually led to this landmark moment in history

Reflecting on the struggles and achievements of the enslaved Africans and their descendants is crucial for several reasons

Firstly, it allows us to acknowledge and pay tribute to the immense sacrifices and hardships endured by our forefathers.

Their resilience in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to the present generation, reminding us of the strength we can draw from our heritage and the importance of preserving our history for future generations

Secondly, Emancipation Day serves as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility we bear in ensuring that the legacy of our ancestors is not forgotten.

We must strive to protect and cherish the hard - won liberties for which they fought, promoting a society where everyone can live with dignity and freedom, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background

Embracing the significance of Emancipation Day also means celebrating the immense contributions of people of African descent to the fabric of Guyanese society

From art and culture to science and politics, their influence is woven into every aspect of our nation’s development Acknowledging these contributions fosters a sense of unity and pride among all Guyanese citizens, reinforcing the idea that our diversity is a source of strength and a foundation for progress

As we observe Emancipation Day, let us not lose sight of the ongoing struggles faced by marginalised communities worldwide

President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali,

during his Emancipation Day message, reiterated his commitment in the fight to attain reparations for African enslavement

He also urged Guyanese to reject any object that poses as a hindrance to unity in the passage to having a “One Guyana.”

The President related: “My government remains committed to the struggle for reparations for the crime of African enslavement We demand that those who were complicit in and who profited from the trade in captive Africans and African enslavement pay just reparations.”

By recognising the significance of this occasion, we recommit ourselves to building a society that stands on the pillars of empathy, understanding, and unity

Together , let us move forward , drawing strength from the past as we strive for a more equitable and harmonious Guyana.

Ram & McRae turns sod for new $400M three-storey complex

RAM and McRae chartered accountants and professionals, on Monday afternoon, turned the sod for what is expected to be a new three-storey office building in Waterloo Street, Georgetown.

The sod turning took place at Ram & McRae’s,

office where the new building will be constructed, and attendees were told that contractors hope to have the project completed in a year’s time

According to Christopher Ram, the project is an expansion and development of a three-storey complex

that will be constructed in two phases with an intention to have the sections of the structure be office spaces for rental and another section house Ram & McRae

Ram told the Guyana Chronicle that this development will add to the com-

pany ’ s portfolio , as they have invested in several other types of developments across the country

“ So , it ’ s a phased development of the Ram & McRae types of property portfolio,” he said

Although they have received assurances from the

contractor that the project would be completed in a year , Ram indicated that he believes that it may take more time and as such, they have made budgetary allowances for same

He cited the supply of labour and materials as his reason for the belief that the

project may extend beyond that time frame Meanwhile, it was revealed that works are expected to begin soon on the complex which will take up five separate lots in the area, and will be undertaken by Andy Playter Contracting Services.

Editor Navendra Seoraj

Former President, Donald Ramotar (centre), Christoff Ram (left) and Contractor, Andy Playter as they turned the sod on Monday (Adrian Narine photo) A miniature version of the three-storey office complex (Adrian Narine photo)

OP-ED The Guyana Model: Socio-Ecological Market Economy

By Dr Randolph Persaud

READERS will recall my article a few days ago in which I asked if the United States is a good political economy model for Guyana . The piece received some attention in “ cyber - media ” and , on account of the interest shown , I would like to elaborate on the central concerns recently expressed

The central articulating principle of my position is that the American socio - economic structure is based on a lop-sided model that favours businesses , rather than markets While the self - regulating price mechanism does generate inequalities, these are magnified when big business exercises their structural power to derive “ special interest” benefits

My contention is that the structural power of capital did not end with the Robber Barons but took a new

form in hyper neoliberalism that came to be known as Reaganomics This neoliberalism is based on a philosophy of “ personal responsibility.”

It is “ blame - the - poor ” philosophy It is profoundly anti - labour , and firmly rejects state provision of resources to the working classes It is a corrupt philosophy because, while it preaches no help for the working class and the marginalised (due to race and gender), it supports subsidising businesses with the excuse that the benefits will trickle down

Many will recall that the first action taken by President Reagan was to fire 11,000 air traffic controllers Recall that one in three Americans does not have $400 in cash to meet an unexpected expense and that 650,000 people declare bankruptcy every year to medical bills

It is important to know that personal responsibility capitalism in the United

States is not confined to the Republican Party Recall , for instance , that it was President Clinton who removed Glass-Stegal which, since 1933, had separated commercial banking from investment banking

In my own view , this gift to Wall Street contributed to the housing-market led “ financial crisis ,” followed by a full-blown economic meltdown in 20092010

The PPP’s model from Cheddi Jagan, through Janet Jagan, Sam Hinds, Bharrat Jagdeo , Donald Ramotar , and Mohamed Irfaan Ali , has always been pro-working class There are variations, of course

This is to be expected for a period spanning three - quarters of a century Yet , the core beliefs and practices of the PPP amount to a rejection of trickle-down economics

In contradistinction to the neoliberalism of personality responsibility capitalism al la the United States, the current Guyana model is based on the following:

(a A social-democratic approach to economic governance that advances the economic well - being and human development of the population

(b) An economic environment with concomitant policies that are conducive to market dynamics within the parameters of the protection of private property rights, human security, and

the rule of law

(c) A fundamental commitment to national unity based on democratic values, (One Guyana), democratic institutions, and the paramountcy of the Constitution of Guyana

(d) Based on the above, I am of the view that the Guyana Model is akin to the post-war German approach, that is, the Social Market Economy (SME). However, given that our LCDS (20092010 and 2030) also offer constitutive elements to our approach, the SME should be adjusted to Socio-Ecological Market Economy ( SEME ) ( see O ’ Hara and Stagl, (2001).

Professor H Call described the SME “…as an economic order [in] which a framework of market economy aims for social security and social equity by means of political intervention and measures in line with the market

“It aims at maintaining the mechanisms of the free market while simultaneously ensuring social equity by keeping a balance between a high rate of economic growth, low inflation, low levels of unemployment , good working conditions , social welfare, and public services by using state intervention” (Horst Call, 2012).

The ecological dimension of the Guyanese SEME is based on three components First, is the 44 million acres of pristine, tropical rain forest, which is a

natural resource

The second aspect is what I conceptualise as “Ideas-Based Value,” that is, an economic model that transforms the raw (natural) resource of the forest into an actionable, realised value, expressed in monetary payments

As you know, Hess Corporation is paying US$750 million to Guyana under the ART - TRESS framework In the first iteration of this model, Guyana and Norway signed the first bilateral deal based on Avoided Deforestation The third component is President Ali ’ s comprehensive food security policies pursued through sustainable agriculture

Some readers will ask where oil and gas fit into the model, and that is a perfectly relevant question

The first and obvious answer is that O&G will allow the GoG, under the PPPC, to bring to fruition its main objectives at a much faster pace

Yet , as President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo have said on numerous occasions , hydrocarbons form only one plank of the economy O&G is allowing Guyana to transform the basic foundations of the economy

New sectors are emerging, as could be seen in the tourism , hotel , food , and beverage industry A new generation of highly trained Guyanese is now rising and will form the bedrock

Dr Randolph Persaud of a dynamic, skills-based economy Finally , the financial resources derived from oil and gas will allow President Ali and the PPPC to deepen its commitments to those who have been left behind

The arguments put forward reflect deep concerns about the central tendencies of the American economy While personal responsibility neoliberalism has facilitated the fantastic accumulation of wealth, millions of Americans are still mired in poverty There are, in fact, varieties of capitalism

The US model is an extreme form Other countries such as Canada , Japan , Germany , and Norway , have pursued more social-democratic versions where state intervention aimed at correcting “ externalities” are politically and culturally acceptable

The Guyana Model of Socio - Ecological Market Economy builds on these varieties of capitalism, albeit with a sound tropical twist due to our LCDS

In closing, I feel compelled to state that small countries under sound leadership can also provide innovative , global leadership

Emancipation and entitlement: Brief notes

TODAY marks another anniversary of freedom from slavery that is officially known as emancipation. Slavery is the most anti - human tragedy to fall on civilization.

In many countries in Europe, a person can be charged for just being flippant about the Holocaust Countries that were victims of African slavery should pass a similar law

It is beyond belief that a living human can point to something in the history of civilization that is worse than slavery There has never been such an occurrence Slavery was just impossible for any human to imagine. I hope no East Indian of this country ever descend to mental vulgarity by comparing indentureship to slavery

The word “emancipation” has taken on prodigious importance since the PNC (I prefer to write PNC than APNU though I concede APNU was the legal name for the party that won the 2015 general elections) lost the 2020 elections

Since 2020, the slogan of emancipation is being contextualised by the opposition PNC and a racist cabal, (though not attached to the PNC, is considered an ally of the PNC), to promote an agenda of African entitlement

There are two types of entitlement impulses that are being displayed in Guyana One is from the Mulatto/Creole

class (MCC) that deeply feels that it is the natural inheritor of Guyana after the colonials left

The entitlement demand of the MCC is based on possession of western culture including religion, skin colour and eugenics. This entitlement portfolio was bolstered by the preference for the MCC by the colonial power

By the time colonial rule was about to end, the colonial administration in British Guiana had so favoured the MCC that the MCC had the honest belief that it should be in charge of Guyana after Independence

The second entitlement mentality comes from the political party, the People’s National Congress that has its roots among working class African Guyanese who were the proletariat of British Guiana

This proletarian stratum consisted and still does, of predominantly brown and dark-skinned Africans The entitlement push of the PNC is frenetically supported by an anti-Indian racist cabal that does not have formalistic association with the PNC but supports the politics of the party. I refer to this group in my academic work as the lunatic fringe (TLF).

These two advocates of entitlement do not have any formal or informal relation and the reason for this lies in the class and

colour mentality of the MCC The MCC does not trust the PNC, does not want to socialise with PNC constituencies , but the insane pursuit of the MCC to prevent the acquisition of power by non-Christian Indians have historically resulted in the MCC tolerating the PNC and its proletarian supporters I am yet to conclude my series on the MCC, so I will reserve further analysis for that series

The entitlement bandwagon of the PNC and TLF has travelled with supersonic speed since the loss of power by the PNC in the March 2020 general elections It is the goldmine for the PNC and TLF because a growing economy has allowed the Dr Ali presidency the economic capacity to reach out to Guyanese of African descent who did not support the PPP as a party and as a government the past decades

So, to remain relevant, the entitlement doctrine seems to be the only survival route for the PNC. The entitlement agenda has several manifestations of which two stand out – Africans are being denied avenues for social and economic advancement by the PPP government and to eradicate this the only solution is shared governance

There are three gargantuan impedi-

ments that block the pathway of the entitlement activism of the PNC and TLF.

1- President Ali, a quintessential Jaganite (he comes from a long line of Jaganites in his family lineage) wants to leave a multi-racial legacy so he is reaching out to African Guyanese and offering resources to African communities

2- Other ethnic communities do not accept the entitlement ideology because while they concede Africans came as slaves, they posit that their contribution to modern Guyana is equal to any other ethnic community so there cannot be special entitlement for any particular ethnic section of the Guyanese society

3- The very party that is pushing African entitlement has two humongous burdens to bear that undermine the efficacy of the entitlement activism First, the average African but more importantly, middle class Africans know that the PNC and the MCC were in power after 2015, and African empowerment did not take place Secondly, Africans know the PNC and TLF are using them, lying to them and they will not embrace the doctrine of special entitlement Africans know Guyana is becoming wealthy and that in the abundance of water, some are thirsty.

Emancipation Day Messages

Let us use the sacrifices, achievements of Afro-Guyanese as a source of inspiration

THE People ’ s Progressive Party (PPP) wishes to extend warmest greetings to every Guyanese , especially our Afro - Guyanese brothers and sisters on the occasion of the 185th Anniversary of Emancipation

Slavery remains the most cruel and inhumane system of subjugation and discrim-

ination known in human history The celebration of its abolition is the duty of every single human being This occasion once again provides another opportunity for all to reflect on the tremendous sacrifices made by our Afro-Guyanese ancestors who were brought inhumanely to this land in chains to

provide free labour for the sugar plantations

They were stripped of their humanity and dignity , and forced to toil long hours Many were tortured and brutally killed for simply standing up for their rights In their long and unyielding march for freedom , many battles were fought, including

the Berbice Slave rebellion led by our nation’s National Hero, Cuffy When freedom finally came , the freed slaves and their descendants demonstrated an exceptional degree of industry, thrift, and financial acumen and hence, were able to acquire large portions of land , which today remains

the foundation of our village movement

Indeed, the contributions of slaves and their descendants to every facet of life in this nation is impossible to accurately capture in a mere statement of this nature

As we celebrate this important historic and national occasion, we urge every

Let us reflect on the deep implications of Emancipation Day

HAPPY Emancipation Day to the Guyanese people.

August 1 marks the 185th anniversary of the abolition of slavery, one of the world’s most dehumanising systems of man by man We observe and celebrate the occasion with all Guyanese, especially those of African descent for whom Emancipation Day holds monumental historic importance

Today, we call on Guyanese to reflect on the deep implications of Emancipation Day In particular, we must recognise that emancipation was not granted for enslaved Africans as an act of mercy so that they can enjoy freedom for the first time

We must recognise that liberty and autonomy were already birth rights of many Africans in Africa, but were

taken away from them We must also recognise that enslaved Africans fought to regain their stolen emancipation over centuries with immeasurable endurance , fortitude, and sacrifice. The formal abolition of slavery in 1838 , therefore , must be properly and justifiably recognised as acknowledging and restoring their lost freedom

On this Emancipation Day, we in Guyana must recommit to fight to restore the ongoing loss of freedoms in our society —both politically and economically We must fight for the total economic emancipation of all Guyanese By economic emancipation , we mean all Guyanese must have the freedom and opportunity to be and to do all they deem

necessary to achieve prosperity and economic security for themselves

At present, too many are economically oppressed because of poverty and low incomes, inadequate skills and capabilities, high cost of living, unemployment, few opportunities, among other things

A fully emancipated Guyana would be a country where all citizens can enjoy their full social, economic, and political rights regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, political affiliation, religion, or social status

A fully emancipated Guyana would be a country that fulfils Article 40 (1) of its own constitution, which states: “Every person in Guyana is entitled to the basic right to a happy, creative and productive life, free

from hunger, ignorance, and want.”

Let us continue the struggle to liberate our country from all forms of bondage, deprivation, suppression, and

Guyanese not only to reflect upon the struggles, herculean sacrifices of the slaves and their descendants, and their remarkable achievements, but also to use them as a source of inspiration and guide as we continue to work together to build a united and democratic nation.

THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) once again takes this opportunity to salute our Afro-Guyanese brothers and sisters across the country and in the diaspora on the occasion of Emancipation Day.

This historic anniversary provides yet another opportune moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our African ancestors who were brought to these shores in chains to provide free labour to the sugar planters

Stripped of their humanity and dignity and forced to toil long hours , to say that our African ancestors suffered at the hands of the sugar planters would be a gross understatement During that genocidal process, many were tortured and brutally killed for standing up for their rights In the long march

to freedom , many battles were fought , including the Berbice Slave rebellion led by our National Hero, Cuffy

In the end , the resilient spirit of resistance, demonstrated by our African ancestors, prevailed and freedom was attained in August 1838 Freed and successful in forging a society , having purchased a number of villages, there were attempts by the sugar planters to sabotage the slaves’ newly won independence However, their determination for success and peace resulted in their triumph

Our African ancestors

and their descendants have and continue to make invaluable contributions to the development of Guyana The foundations of our society and economy were firmly laid by them through hard work and commitment to their homeland

As our Union once again recognises the tremendous sacrifices and the selfless contributions African ancestors made to our modern society, it wishes to reiterate the importance of the principle of racial equality, and a governance mechanism where each and every citizen regardless of race , colour or creed, be given an equal opportunity to contribute to advancement of our society

Once again , happy Emancipation greetings to all Guyanese, in particular our Afro-Guyanese brothers and sisters

inhumanness

Let us be motivated that , with proper leadership, we can build Guyana into one of the best countries to live in.

The sacrifices of our African brothers and sisters will forever be acknowledged

Day Messages

GTUC honours Africans’ contributions to Guyana’s development

THE Guyana Trades Union Congress joins with all Guyana in celebrating freedom from the world’s most inhumane system and treatment of man towards man

As Guyanese mark emancipation of Africans from chattel slavery , in a world where injustice to one poses a threat to justice for all, this day is not only a victory and progressive step in relations between the once enslaved

and enslaver, but for all Freedom from bondage came with it some measures of expected uncertainties , such as what would life be post-slavery and relationship between groups, where there existed a history of domination and subjugation, built on unscientific notions of superiority and inferiority

In that Africans , having given of their labour for centuries , under brutal conditions that deprived them

of fundamental rights and decency, were able to move off the plantations and set up progressive life independent of same, is no small feat

They pooled the pennies acquired during the four year of amelioration (1834-1838) and being able from the getgo to use their meagre earnings to buy up plantations, converted them to villages, and established an indigenous system of government and economy are remarkable

These achievements speak of a people possessing of intellect, though ignored as a justification to enslave them, and the spirit of camaraderie and determination to establish a life and succeed independent of a system that would have told them they are incapable of Outside of laying the topography of coastland Guyana with their lives, blood, sweat and tears , Africans have laid the foundation of the indigenous system of government, which came to be known as Local Government, that laid the foundation for national and regional governments, and a village economy built on the cooperative principles, which is a part of the nation’s tri-sector economy Africans have contributed

to every facet of this nation’s growth and development , giving of the labour and talent in the various sectors , processes and areas of endeavour These achievements and contributions must not only be recounted, but must also see redoubling of efforts to preserve and motivations to grow from strength to strength

For emancipation will mean nothing if Africans , who fought for and achieved this landmark moment in the world ’ s calendar , were to accept or participate in any action that would threaten or repeat the domination , marginalisation and oppression their forebears rightfully fought against GTUC , therefore , takes the opportunity to remind all freedom is not free ; it

requires eternal vigilance and continuous sacrifices

To the extent where Africans are deprived of equality in the social, cultural, political, civic and economic environment, all our efforts must be made to secure these

And let it be said, in the pursuit of said determination, it must matter not the identity or diversity of those who suppress or support the cause

The only thing that must matter is the cause , for it speaks to and solidifies the inalienable rights of all humankind To ignore this would be unlike the ancestors who worked with others in furtherance of their interests and resisted any who participated in their enslavement and deprivations

Onward , upward , we must ever go!

society

THE Ethnic Relations Commission , ( ERC ), joins with all Guyanese in commemorating the 185th Emancipation Anniversary and in particular, to acknowledge the struggles and victory of African Guyanese against the institution of slavery.

According to the Venn Commission of the late 1940s , slavery in British Guiana resulted in close to half a million deaths of enslaved Africans in the work to make Guyana’s coastland habitable

The free labour of the enslaved Africans, “drove back the sea and cleared , drained and reclaimed 15,000 square miles of forest and swamps This is equivalent to 18 per cent of Guyana’s 83,000 square miles. In the process, they

installed 2.58 million miles of drainage canals, trenches and inter-bed drains; 3,500 miles of dams , roads and footpaths; and 2,176 miles of sea and river defence” (Venn Commission).

Further, enslaved Afri-

Guyanese community continues to contribute significantly to the progress of the multi-ethnic society and national harmony Their contributions are evident in the critical sectors of education, health, national security and sport, among others

cans, “to build the coastal plantation alone , had to move 100 million tons of earth ” without machinery (Venn Commission).

The ERC is resolute that despite the brutal historical circumstances, the African

The arrival from Africa of chained human cargo in the early years serves as poignant reminders of the first pillars that supported the formation of the multi-ethnic Guyanese society Looking back, we can all learn from their experiences while faced with the changing dynamics of this century Happy Emancipation Anniversary to all from the Chairman , Commissioners and staff of the Ethnic Relations Commission!

Afro-Guyanese continue to contribute significantly to our multi-ethnic

ACDA beyond Emancipation

By Dillon Goring

AFRICAN culture is normally featured and celebrated around this time of year in almost all the regions of the country, but more particularly in Region

Four for the Emancipation Day Festival held on August 1

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle , African Cultural and Development Association ( ACDA ) Coordinator Ayesha Haynes shared an inside perspective regarding the life of ACDA after the Emancipation event Haynes disclosed that all year, ACDA has a range of events that are done to

celebrate African Heritage Month, building school-aged children and entrepreneurial ventures and programmes

“All year, we run a range of activities that we do within our communities: we have a children ’ s programme that runs every Saturday It is opened to anyone who wants to sign up , “ Haynes disclosed to this publication.

Haynes further explained that at the children ’ s programme, free African drumming , free History classes , field trips, and a diversity of programmes are done

She further noted that a transportation arrangement is being put in place to accommodate those children

who have difficulties getting to the centre

“We also have a school called “the Centre of Learning Afrocentric Orientation Now initially , before we started the programme , we had started a programme that focuses on at - risk youths These were persons whom society says don ’ t have a chance, it was as a result that a mentorship programme was launched, “ Haynes disclosed to the Guyana Chronicle

Haynes outlined that the ACDA institution ran programmes primarily focused on a one-on-one session that is community - based , thus getting to the root of the problem

“ It , therefore , meant that ACDA had to design programmes that focused on changing the imagery of one’s self to a positive perspective, and that addressed the issue of maintaining one’s ability to see yourself in a positive light Once young people knew more about themselves, you saw a better and a more confident person; thus , their production improved quite significantly,” Haynes revealed

The school accommodates pupils from playgroups, all the way up to Grade Six

Further , the Sisters in Unity Programme is another programme that is run by ACDA, and it caters to single

mothers who need support to feed their children

Haynes pointed out that every month , hampers are provided to help take care of the children and their needs

“ In order to be a part of it, you must be active in parenting, family planning, what are you doing to do more in a communal setting For example, we offer to help fundraise for programmes we do all year,” Haynes told the Guyana Chronicle

Haynes concluded that the African Cultural and Development Association

(ACDA) is more than just Emancipation celebrations, and there are a number of diverse programmes and

Ayesha Haynes (Japheth Savory photo)

initiatives that are geared to ensure that the African community is equipped with the necessary skills set to develop and grow stronger as a community.

Emancipation Day Messages

We must do better to secure a brighter future as a nation

THE Guyana Public Service Union extends warm greetings on this Emancipation Day, to all locally and internationally Emancipation Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the difficult and untold sufferings of our forefathers.

It was a long and grueling fight to end the harrowing crime of enslavement which was inflicted on humanity for centuries despite the persistent cries for freedom Freedom guaranteed the right to live and enjoy a life in dignity, and the security to live one’s life according to one’s dreams and beliefs

As we continue to reflect, let us envision a future of prosperity for all Guyanese as One People, One Nation, One Destiny – with a commitment for development in the interest of all.

History would teach us that human slavery was institutionalised long before the year 1080, and several efforts were made to ban the slave trade in England in the 12 th Century when the Ecclesiastical Council of London decreed that “let no one dare to engage in the infamous business of selling men like animals”.

However , time progressed , until 1783 when an anti-slavery movement started Despite legislative restrictions on slave trading, slavery itself remained unchallenged and flourished on the sugar plantations of the Caribbean

Many African families were captured and sold into slavery during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Barbarism and genocide were the fate of some slaves during this unfortunate period Others endured sickness ,

starvation, torture and the brutal life sugar plantations offered death was a relief from the sickening conditions

The Jamaican rebellion caused the British Empire to hold an inquiry into the rebellion, which resulted in the passage of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 that became effective on August 1, 1834 throughout the

slavery or their descendants

The July 2023 Brussels Summit of the European Union and the Community of Latin American and the Caribbean States (CELAC) Declaration 10 states: “We acknowledge and profoundly regret the untold suffering inflicted on millions of men , women and children as a result of the trans-Atlantic slave trade … including the acknowledgment that slavery and the slave trade, including the transatlantic slave trade , were appalling tragedies in the history of humanity not only be-

cause of their abhorrent barbarism but also in terms of their magnitude, organized nature and especially their negation of the essence of the victims, and that slavery and the slave trade are a crime against humanity…”.

CELAC referred to the Caribbean Reparation Commission document , which outlines the path to conciliation, truth, and justice for the victims of slavery and their descendants

In today ’ s society , the conditions experienced by the enslaved human capital of the 16th century no longer exist and several anti-slav-

ery legislations are inforce to prevent a recurrence.

However , that process to emancipation was laced with blood and tears, many have died to secure freedom for all and the right to be born free, to live freely and to enjoy benefits compensatory to efforts

As we enjoy our lives in freedom where the chains of bondage were broken, the shackles loose, let us strive to secure economic freedom as well as prosperity for all Let us continue the difficult journey in pursuit of a livable wage for workers

Social and economic equality must be attained

to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor of our country

Let us work together to build a just and fair society, where all are treated equally before the law, and where all can share in the richness of our country’s resources, regardless of our ethnicity, social and economic standing, or geographic origin

This is a Guyana of One People , One Nation , One Destiny. We can do better; albeit we must do better to secure a brighter future as a nation

Let individual , economic and social freedom reign.

British Empire except a few territories

With the passage of the 1834 Act 800,000 slaves were freed, causing an influx of indentured labourers to supplement the plantation’s labour force Under the Act 20 - million - pound sterling were paid to slave owners as compensation Further , on January 1 , 1863 the Emancipation Proclamation by United States President Abraham Lincoln to wit:

“… all persons held as slaves shall be forever free and all authority thereof, shall recognise and maintain the freedom of such persons and will do no acts to reprise such persons in any effort they make for their actual freedom”.

This Proclamation was only effective in the rebellious States during the civil war which liberated 3.5 million slaves

In 2023, 189 years later , there is still the call for Reparative Justice, for restitution to the victims of

ACDA Coordinator

Over 140 GTT technicians secure international certification in fibre installation

AS GTT continues to evolve to serve Guyana’s rapidly growing economy, it is prioritising the professional development of its workforce of over 700 employees

According to a press release from the company, more than 140 technicians are now officially internationally certified in fibre installation by the Society of Cable Telecommunication Engineers (SCTE) after undergoing specialised training by the well-recognised body

Additionally , more than 60 managers also received certificates for the completion of GTT’s Leadership Development Programme (LDP).

Deputy Chief Executive Officer ( CEO ) of GTT , Richard Stanton , during his remarks at a special recognition ceremony for the team at Parc Rayne on the East Bank Demerara last Friday, said that the company has been positioning itself to provide best in-class service to its customers while positively impacting the lives of its employees

“ The ever - increasing demand for bandwidth-intensive applications such as video streaming, cloud

computing, and virtual reality necessitates a robust and scalable infrastructure Fibre optics delivers on this front, and we are leading the way in every area,” he said.

Jermaine Gilbert and Rockwell Scarder emerged as the top performers in their batch of the SCTE course, by both obtaining an outstanding 90 per cent on their first attempt at the examination

“I love installing fibre and I’m definitely proud to have this certificate I feel satisfied knowing that GTT as a company is not only investing in me as an employee but is investing in all of us and really pushing us to grow and it shows; look at what we have done as a team installing fibre across the country,” one of the beneficiaries said

“ GTT has been steadfastly working towards the goal of bringing fibre to 75 per cent of the country before the end of 2024 and is currently ahead of its target with two in every three structures having access to the company’s fibre solution,” the company said

GTT is prioritising the professional development of its workforce of over 700 employees

–– more than 60 managers receive leadership certificates

Over $500M invested to restore, develop Guyana’s mangrove ecosystem

THE government is making progress in fulfilling its commitment to the restoration, and development of the country’s mangrove ecosystem

On Sunday, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) in collaboration with the Environmental Management Consultants (EMC) Foundation, hosted a mangrove tour along the shoreline , from MovieTowne to the Ogle Gas Station

The exercise was held in observance of International Day of the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem , which is celebrated annually on July 26 , to further promote strategies for the sustainable management , conservation, and utilisation of the mangrove ecosystem, and to increase awareness

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha commended NAREI and EMC for collaborating on several initiatives over the years , including the establishment of a mangrove restoration site at Ogle and others across the country

Partnerships like these are critical , the minister stressed, to further develop Guyana’s mangrove ecology and effectively battle climate change

“And I want to also ask the other private sector bodies to come on board We must not look at the government’s allocation and other corporate entities We must do this in a partnership because climate change is real

“Before, we used to have two inches of rainfall in two months Now , we are having six and seven inches of rainfall in two hours We are living in a very vulnera-

ble region, and we must be prepared ,” the agriculture minister added

Minister Mustapha noted that these activities can be replicated in other parts of the country , especially Berbice and Essequibo , to highlight the importance of mangroves

“Since I became Minister of Agriculture, we have expended more than $ 500 million in the restoration and the development of our mangrove system This shows the government ’ s commitment and what we are doing as an administration,” Minister Mustapha stated

The administration is actively working to restore mangroves in about 12 areas, and is conducting training across the country

Meanwhile , EMC ’ s Founder and Managing Director , Shyam Nokta noted that the agency intends to continue working with NAREI, the River and Sea Defence Board , and other stakeholders to further enhance the area

“And to make it a zone for recreation as it already is But also, for the awareness of the environment and conservation And especially now where we are seeing , after many years, mangroves coming back along the foreshore,” Nokta said

British High Commissioner to Guyana , Jane Miller noted that the protection of mangroves is important to the environment and the future of Guyana’s economy.

EMC has been an integral partner with NAREI’s mangrove department towards the execution of several public awareness and educational activities

U-13 national cricket team off to T&T for bilateral series

THE Guyana national Under-13 cricket team departed the country at the weekend for Trinidad and Tobago to participate in the second annual Goodwill Bilateral Series between the two nations.

The Series is an arrangement between the presidents of the two cricket boards- Bissoondyal Singh of Guyana and Azim Bassarath of Trinidad and Tobago- which will allow budding cricketers an opportunity to showcase and develop their skills.

An Under-13 team from Trinidad and Tobago visited Guyana for the inaugural series last December.

“The introduction of the Under-13 age group cricket is part of the Guyana Cricket Board’s five-year strategic plan set in 2021 by the present administration in which some of the objectives include exposing young cricketers to playing against other countries, playing in different countries where conditions can

`RACING TIPS

pose a different challenge, which, of course, serves to develop players’ skills at the grassroot level.,” the Guyana Cricket Board highlighted in a press release.

The national squad was selected after a historic Inter-county competition, which was won by Essequibo.

Guyana and Trinidad will face off in four 40over matches, to be played on August 2, 4, 6 and 8, with all games at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba.

Guyana Under-13 Team: Brandon Henry (Captain), Richard Ramdeholl (Vice-captain), Justin Dowlin, Bhomesh Lall, Khush Seegobin, Lomar Seecharran, Tameshwar Deonandan, Nathaniel Ramsammy, Reyaz Latif, Joshua Bollers, Ethan Silas, Makai Dowlin, Raffel McKenzie, Thierry Davis and Makayah Holmes. Ameer Rahaman will serve as the Head coach with Kumar Bishundial his assistant, while Rayon DeCosta will carry out managerial duties.

16:20 hrs Safari Quest

South Africa Racing Tips Vaal

08:30 hrs Scottish Saint

09:05 hrs Rose Of Trippi

hrs Golden Taipan

15:00 hrs A Nightinlambourn

15:30 hrs Sword Of Fate

16:00 hrs Just Dottie

Irish Racing Tips

Galway

12:10 hrs Space Tourist

12:40 hrs Sharjah

13:10 hrs Glor Tire

13:40 hrs Dunim

15:15 hrs Nelda

15:50 hrs Imposing Supreme

09:40 hrs Golden Sickle

10:15 hrs Mia Regina

American Racing Tips Finger Lakes Race 1 Graywing Race 2 Deniece Of Degrace Race 3 Miami Chrome Race 4 Kateri Empire Race 5 Holiday Jazz Race 6 Ixodes Race 7 Leo And Royal

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Tuesday August 01, 2023)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Desmond Haynes-1357 runs (36 matches)

(2) Virat Kohli-9 centuries (44 matches)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which WI bowler has claimed most ODI wickets against India to date?

(2) Who has led India in most ODIs against the WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

The national Under-13 cricketers and members of the management team upon arrival in Trinidad and Tobago at the weekend (Photo: Guyana Cricket Board)

Broad conjures one last burst of magic...

From page 24

England's seamers had struggled to create chances on the fourth day but a replacement ball - chosen 11 deliveries before Sunday's early close - and helpful overhead conditions meant they were in the game from the start of the fifth morning, with Broad almost immediately beating the bat.

Woakes struck in the fourth over of the day, angling one across Warner to have him caught behind. Even if Broad is reputed to be Warner's tormentor-in-chief, Woakes has taken on that mantle in the last two weeks, dismissing him twice in the match in Manchester and twice more in South London.

England burned a review when Broad's nip-backer struck Marnus Labuschagne on the thigh, but outside the line of off stump, but the DRS could not save Usman Khawaja in Woakes' next over. He went full and straight, trapped him on the front pad and brought Khawaja's superb individual series to an end with a

fourth-innings 72.

Labuschange had been the only frontline Australian batter to cope with Mark Wood's pace at both Headingley and Old Trafford, but was squared up to fall to him for the second time in the match for only 13. He was beaten by a length ball that moved away late, edging to second slip where Crawley held a good, low catch.

Smith and Head counter-punched, bringing up a 50-run stand in 62 balls. Head was repeatedly beaten on the outside edge by Broad but thumped backto-back boundaries off James Anderson, while Smith looked somewhere back to his best after two quiet Tests since his hundred at Lord's.

He was dramatically reprieved in the over before lunch, gloving Moeen's offbreak to Stokes at leg slip only for Stokes to lose control of the ball, brushing it against his thigh as he went to throw it up in celebration. England challenged the on-field decision and were frustrated to lose a review, but Smith

survived and reached the interval on 40.

Rain wiped out the second session and delayed the third. Shortly after the resumption Smith brought up his second half-century of the match and his first in the fourth innings of a match in seven years - but Head fell to the very next ball, and England grasped their moment.

For Australia, defeat means that a generation of modern greats will leave the game without winning a series in England outright, despite going two-nil up after two Tests. Murphy is their only player who featured at The Oval under the age of 29; many others will not be back in four years' time.

And for England, this was validation for an extraordinary transformation in their approach to Test cricket. They hardly landed a punch in a miserable Ashes tour 18 months ago but had Australia on the ropes for much of this series. For Broad - and Moeen - it was a fitting send-off. (Cricinfo).

Jamaica Hold a 115-run lead over Barbados

JAMAICA hold a 115-run lead over Barbados heading into the third and final day of their West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 three-day final at the Arnos Vale Playing Field in Kingstown, St. Vincent.

The Jamaicans were 4-0 at stumps on day two after bowling out the Bajans for 158 in 56.1 overs.

Nimar Bolden led the way for Barbados with 37 as

pacer, Deshawn James, took 5-21 off 10.1 overs for the Jamaicans. Tamarie Redwood took 3-56 from 18 overs in support.

Earlier, Jamaica were bowled out for 269 off 108.4 overs in their first innings after entering day two on 217-4.

Jordan Johnson carried on from his overnight 118* to make 120 off 235 balls. His knock included six fours and

a six. Captain, Brian Barnes, who entered day two on 59, was dismissed for 61 off 150 balls.

Captain, Nathan Sealy, took 5-64 off 30.4 overs for Barbados.

A win for Jamaica would see them complete the regional Under-19 double having already claimed the 50-over title (Sportsmax)

Windies embrace hopes of long-awaited ODI series win

TAROUBA, Trinidad, (CMC) – West Indies’ convincing six-wicket victory over India in last Saturday’s second One-Day International has raised their hopes of ending their near two-

decade-long wait for an ODI series win against the Asian giants.

The two teams will clash at the Brian Lara Stadium here Tuesday in the decisive third ODI, with West Indies fully aware of

the significance of a series win after last beating India in a bilateral series in 2006.

When they lost the opener by five-wickets at Kensington Oval last Thursday after being dismissed for a paltry 114,

the series seemed to be taking an all too familiar direction.

However, captain Shai Hope produced a highclass unbeaten half-century in the second ODI as West Indies chased down 181 on a dodgy pitch, to level the series and set up a decider in southern Trinidad.

“It [the win] definitely has us in good spirits. We have the series level and we’re trying to go into the last game with a good mindset and try and close out the series,” said batsman Keacy Carty, whose unbeaten 48 in a 91run, unbroken fifth wicket stand with Hope proved the foundation of Saturday’s successful run chase.

“Like I said, we’re in good spirits. It’s been a while since we’ve beaten India in an ODI series so the guys are in good spirits and are looking to go into the game strong. Definitely we’re looking to win the series.”

Nothing such was even fathomable earlier this month when the Caribbean side missed out on a spot at the 50-overs World Cup in India later this year, following their nightmare showing at the qualifiers in Zimbabwe.

After winning their opening matches against

the United States and Nepal, West Indies crashed to stunning defeats to Zimbabwe and the Netherlands, before also losing their first match of the Super Six, second round to Scotland, to bow out unceremoniously.

Carty, who came in for the two final games of the qualifiers and got 29 and 87, said a series win would be an excellent boost for the team following the recent disappointment.

“It would send a good message, coming from Zimbabwe,” said the 26-year-old right-hander, who has played 15 ODIs since making his debut just over a year ago.“Obviously that was disappointing. If we could beat a team like India, it would do the world of good for us.”

With former white-ball captain Nicholas Pooran and marquee all-rounder Jason Holder opting out of the series, Carty has had the opportunity to build on a decent start to a career which has seen him average nearly 37.

And while satisfied with his recent run-scoring, the St Maarten-born player said there was plenty of work ahead of him, in order to cement his place.

“Hopefully I can just be as consistent as possible.

I guess for the last two games I’ve been on the right track but that’s only two games. I’ve just got to look ahead and keep working hard,” he stressed.

“Obviously it’s always good to score runs. Runs give you confidence. I’m glad I was there to finish the job for the team and it was a good win for them.”

Today’s affair will be the first ever men’s ODI to be played at the Brian Lara Stadium.

SQUADS:

WEST INDIES – Shai Hope (captain), Rovman Powell, Alick Athanaze, Kyle Mayers, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Dominic Drakes, Shimron Hetmyer, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Romario Shepherd, Kevin Sinclair, Oshane Thomas, Jayden Seales

INDIA – Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Surya Kumar Yadav, Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Mukesh Kumar.

West Indies batsman Keacy Carty

Guyana, Ethiopia to face off in historic friendly in Virginia

GOLDEN Jaguars Head

Coach Jamaal Shabazz has revealed his 18-man final squad for the historic international friendly against Ethiopia which includes four players who will be representing Guyana internationally for the very first time.

The much-anticipated match will be played on August 2 at the Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia, United States.

With motivation and excitement surrounding the first game between Guyana and an African nation since the Guyana Federation Foundation (GFF) was founded

121 years ago, Shabazz has selected a team with several players who perform creditable during the recently concluded KFC Elite League, which featured the top clubs

across the country.

“For this friendly match against Ethiopia, we have selected a squad with some measure of continuity as we seek to widen the pool

of players. Ethiopia will be a formidable opponent and a great challenge especially for the lads coming out of the just concluded KFC Elite League. Their ability to cope with the demands made of them in this game, will measure how much work we need going forward,” the head coach explained.

Those who made the cut to represent Guyana are two goalkeepers, six defenders, seven midfielders and three forwards.

Goalkeepers: Akel Clarke and Joshua Narine

Defenders: Jeremy Garrett, Curtez Kellman, Reiss Greenidge, Marcus Wilson,

Leo Lovell and Raushan Ritch

Midfielders: Daniel Wilson, Darron Niles, Ryan Hackett, Kelsey Benjamin, Yohance Douglas, Bevan Baker and Kyle Reid

Forwards: Jamal Pereira, Nicholas McArthur and Deon Moore

Shabazz noted that this time round the team has “six overseas-based players whose performances we also want to monitor with an eye on the future as well.”

It is expected to be a thrilling match as both teams are quick on the pitch and have the ability to secure multiple goals.

It will also be Ethiopia’s first time playing in the United States.

FIFA World Ranking has Guyana’s Senior Men’s Team at 168 and Ethiopia, the onetime Africa Cup of Nations champions, at 142 as of July 2023.

Teams are ranked using a points system on international form based on their current performances. The Federation has appealed to all Guyanese to get behind the Golden Jaguars as the GFF seeks to create elite opportunities for the national squad to deliver top performances. (GFF release).

Women's World Cup preview & predictions: China v England & Portugal v USA top bill

ENGLAND, the United States and the Netherlands will attempt to seal knockout stage places at the Women's World Cup as Group D and Group E wrap up today.

European champions England have snatched 1-0 victories from their first two games and will move into the last 16 as Group D winners if they avoid defeat against China, but a heavy loss could see the Lionesses eliminated.

The USA beat the Netherlands in the 2019 World Cup final, but both are battling out in Group E this time around. They have four points each and will be looking for convincing wins against Portugal and Vietnam respectively on day 13 of the tournament in an effort to progress as group winners.

The United States are the top-ranked nation and have always reached at least the semi-finals, winning the World Cup four times, including the past two tournaments in 2015 and 2019.

They began the 2023 campaign with a 3-0 win over Vietnam before being held to a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands in a repeat of the 2019 final.

If the Dutch avoid defeat against already-eliminated Vietnam, then the United States would be out if they lose to Portugal, ranked 21st in the world.

Two-time World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe relishes such pressure.

"I'm excited, we have a must-perform, must-win type of game," said the 38-year-

old American playmaker, who has said this will be her last season before retiring.

"It's a pressure moment, that's what the tournament is from now on, every match is a pressure moment and that's the best part of being at a World Cup.

"We have to perform better and get this result. We go into these moments like 'hell, yeah'."

Tournament debutants

Portugal beat Vietnam 2-0 for their first victory, with the Netherlands facing the Asian nation in their last group match. If both the United States and the Netherlands win, it will come down to goal difference to see who tops the group

Netherlands coach Andries Jonker said his side were looking for goals but not underestimating Vietnam.

"We're going on the attack. One of our objectives is to play attractive football and inspire, but our primary objective is to win," said Jonker.

"We have a lot of respect for Vietnam, they're a good team. We have never shown any arrogance and we won't now."

Former England goalkeeper Rachel Brown-Finnis' prediction for Portugal v United States: "The USA will go through if they avoid defeat and although they have made a slow start, I can't see them having too many problems.

"The defending champions are one of the teams I'm expecting to ramp it up as the World Cup goes on, because they have a lot of younger players who are taking part in their first tournament and learning the ropes: 1-3."

Key stat: The United States are unbeaten in 19 World Cup matches (won 15, drawn four).

Brown-Finnis' prediction for Vietnam v Netherlands: "Netherlands only need a draw to make the last 16 but they should win comfortably.

"I liked what I saw from them in their draw with the USA and that performance bodes well for the tests to come.

"They have found a really effective way of playing and breaking teams down without the injured Vivianne

Miedema, and look the real deal: 0-2."

Key stat: The Netherlands have won seven of their nine games since the start of the 2019 tournament.

England are appearing at a World Cup for a sixth time and have never gone out in the group stage, reaching the semi-finals in 2015 and 2019.

Those narrow wins over Haiti and Denmark have given them six points, but they may still need another point to guarantee progression.

However, manager Sarina Wiegman has dismissed any

suggestion England would play for a draw and said: "We go into every game trying to win - and that's what we'll try to do.

"We have analysed China. They're very well organised. They play a possession game but can also play a direct style."

England are without midfielder Keira Walsh after she was carried off on a stretcher during the 1-0 win against Denmark, although her knee injury is not as serious as first feared.(BBC Sport).

The squad is quite different from the one that participated in the CONCACAF Gold Cup Prelim in June

Two-time World Cup winner Negan Rapinoe

Major League Cricket: Nicholas Pooran century inspires MI New York to inaugural title

By Timothy Abraham BBC Sport

NICHOLAS Pooran hit an unbeaten century as MI New York beat Seattle

Orcas by seven wickets to win the inaugural Major League Cricket title.

Quinton de Kock's 52ball 87 helped Seattle post 183-9 as Trent Boult (334) and Rashid Khan (3-9) claimed three wickets apiece for New York.

Pooran then clubbed 13 sixes and 10 fours in his 137 not out from 55 balls, while Dewald Brevis chipped in with 20.

New York eased home with 24 balls to spare as Pooran hit the winning runs.

West Indies wicketkeeper-batter Pooran, who deputised for the injured Kieron Pollard as New York's captain,r finished as MLC's leading run-scorer with 388 runs at an average of 64.66, ahead of De Kock (264 at 44).

"I told myself that I just needed to bat like Nicky P and not think about batting like the captain," said Pooran, who has played 61 ODIs and 75 T20 internationals for West Indies.

"I just backed my skills. The platform was there today and the opportunity was there. I had to be brave and it worked for me."

New Zealander Boult was the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 22 wickets at an average of 10.36.

USA international Cameron Gannon, who finished as MLC's second-highest wicket-taker with 11 wickets at 17.36 for Seattle, was named domestic player of the

Riddim Squad ends Vengy unbeaten run

...West Dem yet to start

THE unbeaten run of Vengy FC ended last Sunday(30th July) when the Senior Men's League(SML) of the Georgetown FA continued at the National Training Facility, Providence, East Bank Demerara. Coming up against Riddim Squad, another side yet to lose in the nine-team League competition, proved to be Vengy's biggest test as they lost for the first time. The game's solitary and decisive strike came in the 28th minute, compliments of Lester Alleyne. The three points pushed Riddim Squad to eight points from four games and second position, one point less than leaders Beacons who have a game in hand. Vengy remain on seven points, but drop to third in the points table.

Satya Nadella, the chairman and chief executive of Microsoft and co-owner of the Seattle Orcas, bowled the ceremonial first ball before the final at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar was on hand to award the trophy, while Nita Ambani, co-owner of the Mumbai Indians, celebrated with New York's players and posed for selfies with some of the 8,000 fans in attendance.

In the first game of the double-header, GFC and Black Pearl played to a 1-all draw. Peter Smith broke the deadlock in the 14th minute to give Black Pearl the initiative. The 'Bouda Blue's drew level in the 70th minute thanks to Rondell Sobers. The one point earned left GFC in fourth place on six points from four games, while Black Pearl moved to four points in sixth position.

tournament.

"The quality has been exceptional," said Australia-born Gannon.

"Having overseas players and playing this tournament has been so much fun. I think it is going to be fantastic for USA cricket moving forward."

Nicholas Pooran and Trent Boult were key performers for MI New York throughout the tournament

'US can host cricket of highest calibre'

After several false dawns,

cricket finally looks well placed to establish itself in the United States, spearheaded by its flagship T20 franchise tournament.

Attendances at the two venues have encouraged organisers, with curious American sports fans drawn to the tournament in addition to vast swathes of the South Asian diaspora.

MLC's efforts to gain prominence in the US have also been boosted by some influential names.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi even mentioned cricket's growth in the US at a state dinner attended by President Joe Biden at the White House recently.

"The US has emphatically shown the rest of the cricket world that it is capable of successfully hosting cricket of the highest calibre," MLC co-founder Vijay Srinivasan told BBC Sport after the final.

"To hear from the fans and the players who came to MLC this season on how

On the West Side, the unplayable state of the Tuschen Community Centre ground for a second successive weekend forced another postponement of the opening of the West Demerara FA's Senior Men's League. The Interim Competitions Committee is hopeful the conditions will improve when another attempt is made to kick off the 2023 season this coming weekend.

much it exceeded their expectations, and more importantly, that they can't wait to be back next season is both humbling and energising at once.

"I can't think of another sport that has come out of the gates like MLC has in the US - practically all matches sold out in both venues, amazing atmospheres and fans actually building allegiances to their home teams, even

though we are playing in just two venues.

"We are going to build on this incredible launch season to come back even better in 2024."

MLC's founders have already indicated their desire to lure England's best players to the tournament in the future. Even though it clashes with the English summer it could prove hard to resist.

Santa Rosa book Round - of-16 spot with 2-0 win

PRE-TOURNAMENT

favourites Santa Rosa Secondary booked their round-of-16 spot with a challenging 2-0 win over Richard Ishmael Secondary.

Amid a stagnant midfield display from both sides, Santa Rosa persevered to come out on top and progress in the Digicel Schools Football Tournament.

Their saviour was Travis Jarvis who registered a brace

to send his side through, amid several rough challenges from the Georgetown school. This game was fittingly the last game at the Ministry of Education ground as it drew a big crowd.

Despite the final scoreline, Richard Ishmael played positive football but remained unrewarded throughout the game.

Santa Rosa through the indefatigable Jarvis managed to forge ahead either side of

the half amid Richard Ishmael’s formidable defence.

First, he capitalised on the centre back’s Mis kick to find the back of the net in the 28th minute, then he outran the backline to score a stunning curler in the 89th minute to give his side a well-deserved cushion.

The reigning Milo Champions have now booked their round-of-16 spot and will be hot picks to reach the final on August 13.

Nicholas Pooran and Trent Boult were key performers for MI New York throughout the tournament

MI New York are owned by the same group as IPL franchise Mumbai Indians

It was an evenly contested game until Nelon Daniels stepped up his game to lead Santa Rosa to victory

Eccles All-Stars first team to book semi-final spot in Kares T10

ECCLES All-Stars is the first team to secure a spot in the final four of the Kares One Guyana T10 after defeating Movements Family (Mahdia) on Sunday at the Everest Cricket Club.

Eccles is being dubbed the ‘giant-killers’ as they knocked out the formidable ‘The Guards’ and brushed aside the renowned Mahdia to secure their spot.

Mahdia posted only 87-6 from their allotment of 10 overs, with a top score of 22 from a fortuitous Ricardo Adams.

Eccles reached their target in 8.1 overs, with six wickets in the hut, led by Quazim Yusuf with a blazing 33 off nine balls and Anthony Antonio 27 from eight balls.

Earlier, the Guards recovered from a shaky start to post 110-6, and Eccles won the tense contest with four wickets and two balls to spare after Antonio smashed 42* from 18 balls.

Also victorious on Sunday was Village Rams, who hammered Housing and Water One Guyana by 81

runs; V-Net Vipers surged to a massive win over Diamond Gunners, while Mahdia reached the Super Eight stage due to a walkover from Big B’s Blairmont Blazers.

Tarmac Titans, Team Corruption, The United Crew, and Avinash All-Stars are the other remaining teams in hot pursuit for the title and first prize of $1M on August 12 at the National Stadium, Providence.

Inclement weather on Saturday meant the intended two-day extravaganza could not be completed in the scheduled period.

With support from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the finals have been shifted to August 12, under lights, at the National Stadium, Providence.

Initially, at the end of Saturday, there were to be four teams remaining but the weather meant not all of the Super 16 and the Super Eight matches were completed and had to be played on Sunday.

Currently, three more Super Eight matches are still slated to be contested, and a

venue and time are expected to be soon confirmed by the organizers.

When those matches are completed, it means just four teams remain.

Teams expressed great delight at the opportunity of playing at the facility, noting it is historic for them.

Additionally, the charity match will be back in full swing.

The first-ever champions will pocket G$1M, while the losing finalist will collect G$300,000.

The two losing semi-finalists will walk away with G$100,000 each. There will also be prizes for outstanding

individual performances.

The Most Valuable Player of the series will get a motorbike valued over G$250,000,

compliments of Assuria Insurance.

The Corporate Village organised to promote brand

awareness has been postponed to August 12. Some of the companies Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., the Guyana Tourism Authority, ANSA Motors Guyana, Continental Transport Inc., Gafoors, and Premier Insurance are just some companies that are still set to be on show.

The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Tournament organizers would like to thank their sponsors who have made the tournament possible.

Corporate support has come from Kares Engineering Inc., Banks DIH through their GT Beer Brand, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Assuria Insurance , E-Net, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Cricket Zone USA, First Change Builders, Impressions, Jacob’s Jewellery, Beacon Café, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, Zeus Enterprise, Hits and Jams Entertainment, Montra Restaurant and Lounge, and Trophy Stall.

Pooran returns after MLC assignment; Hetmyer, Hope recalled

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Lefthander Nicholas Pooran has returned for the Twenty20 International series against India starting here Thursday, after being named in a 15-man provisional squad announced by Cricket West Indies on Monday.

The 27-year-old was unavailable for the threematch One-Day International phase of the ongoing tour, as he fulfilled his franchise commitments for Mumbai Indians New York in the inaugural Major League Cricket campaign which wrapped up Sunday night.

Pooran lashed a superb unbeaten 137 in the final to earn MI New York a

comfortable win over Seattle Orcas in the Dallas final.

He has been joined by all-rounder Jason Holder who was also unavailable for the one-day series after featuring in the preceding two-Test rubber.

Fast bowler Oshane Thomas has earned a recall after playing his last T20 International 20 months ago while one-day skipper Shai Hope has also found his way back after featuring in the last of his 19 matches, 18 months ago.

Left-hander Shimron Hetmyer, who was recently recalled for the ODI series, is also back in the T20 fold following a year’s absence.

He was picked for last

October’s T20 World Cup but was sensationally axed from the squad after missing a rescheduled flight to Australia.

“The squad is selected with the next ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in mind,” said lead selector, the Most Honourable Desmond Haynes.

“We are looking at various plans as we try to find the right combinations. As we prepare, we are looking to build a unit which we believe can do the job when we host the global event in just under a year.

“We have some match-winners in our line-up and we will look

to have the right kind of preparation, starting here in Trinidad on Thursday.

“We also have other players who could come into consideration going forward. With the Caribbean Premier League starting next month, others will come into the reckoning.”

The squad, led by Rovman Powell and including the likes of vice-captain Kyle Mayers and veteran Johnson Charles, is a near carbon copy of the one that won 2-1 away to South Africa earlier this year.

According to CWI, all 15 players will travel for the five-match series, with 13 due to be selected for each game.

The

National Stadium hosting the next two T20Is on August 6 and 8.

with

The Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida will be the stage for the series finale, with the last two matches being played there on August 12 and 13.

SQUAD – Rovman Powell (captain), Kyle Mayers (vice captain), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Obed McCoy, Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Oshane Thomas.

Qualified! Eccles All-Stars is through to the semi-finals

Village Rams have looked another dominant side

Brian Lara Stadium will stage the opener,

Guyana’s

Batting star Nicholas Pooran

Broad conjures one last burst of magic as England win fifth Test by 49 runs

…series squared two-all at The Oval as retiring seamer claims last two Aussie wickets

England declined to take the second new ball with a hint of movement still on offer, and Broad had Carey edging to second slip only for Zak Crawley to spill a tricky chance. But Bair-

stow clung on when Carey feathered behind once more, and Broad basked in the glow of one final flourish to sign off from his epic career.

Crystal Palace set to sign Brazil Under-20 midfielder Matheus Franca for reported £26m

By Matt Roller

STUART Broad conjured one last burst of magic, signing off from his professional career with the last two Australian wickets to square the Ashes series two-all at The Oval.

England's all-time leading Ashes wicket-taker claimed his 603rd and 604th Test wickets, Todd Murphy and Alex Carey edging behind, to complete a comeback from two-nil down.

Australia retained the urn when rain washed England's victory hopes away in Manchester but

they squandered another opportunity to win a first overseas Ashes series since 2001. They made significant inroads into a steep target of 384 to win, but collapsed dramatically after tea on the fifth day.

(Final Scores: England 283 (Brook 85, Starc 4-82) and 395 (Root 91, Bairstow 78, Crawley 73, Starc 4-100, Murphy 4-110) beat Australia 295 (Smith 71) and 334 (Khawaja 72, Warner 60, Smith 54, Woakes 4-50) by 49 runs)

When rain arrived just as the players returned after the lunch break, Australia needed 146 more runs to win with seven

wickets remaining, with Steven Smith and Travis Head both set. They chipped a further 26 runs off the target after tea, before a dramatic collapse of 4 for 11 in 19 balls.

Moeen Ali, bowling despite a groin strain in what was almost certain to be his final Test match, got one to turn sharply out of the rough as Head edged to slip, then Chris Woakes found Smith's outside edge as the old ball nipped away just a fraction off the seam.

Mitchell Marsh inside-edged onto his pad and Jonny Bairstow clung onto a sharp chance, sprawling low to his right,

and when Mitchell Starc nicked his second ball to second slip, The Oval erupted in celebration.

Pat Cummins fell shortly after, inside-edging Moeen to leg slip via his thigh pad.

That brought Murphy to the crease with 90 runs still required, but he held firm alongside Carey to whittle away at the target. After beating Murphy on the outside edge with successive balls, Broad switched the bails at the non-striker's end - as he had in the first innings - then wheeled away in trademark celebration as his next delivery was nicked behind.

Crystal Palace are set to sign Brazil Under-20 international midfielder Matheus Franca from Flamengo for a reported £26m.

The 19-year-old has been tracked by Palace for some time and underwent a medical with the Eagles this week.

Franca made 29 appearances this season for Flamengo, scoring three goals.

Palace hope he will fill the void left by talisman Wilfried Zaha, 30, who left the club to join Galatasaray.

Franca joined Brazilian side Flamengo as a youngster and progressed through their youth teams before making his senior debut in December 2021.

Playing primarily as an attacking midfielder, Franca has made 54 appearances for Flamengo in total.

This season he has scored once in nine league games and leaves with Flamengo second in Brazil's top flight, 12 points behind Botafogo after 17 matches.

Franca will become Palace's second signing of the summer following the arrival of Colombia midfielder Jefferson Lerma from Bournemouth on a free transfer.(BBC Sport).

Matheus Franca joined Flamengo as a 12-year-old and scored 11 goals for the first team

Stuart Broad struck in his final spell as a Test cricketer • ( Getty Images)

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