GUYANA’S Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, on Tuesday, rigorously defended the country’s efforts to tackle issues relating to human rights.
Birkett was at the time leading a team that responded to questions and recommendations raised at the OHCHR-UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in Geneva, Switzerland.
Guyana is among fourteen nations that are earmarked to have their human rights record reviewed. This is Guyana’s fourth review, with its most recent occurrence happening in January of 2020.
Responding to a number of questions and recommendations made by several country representatives, Birkett noted that the Govern-
ment of Guyana has placed a keen focus on developing appropriate systems to ensure that the human rights of all Guyanese are upheld.
She said that this implementation is happening through several projects that span many areas, including healthcare, education, prison reform, and domestic violence.
In direct response to Guyana maintaining a respectful environment for all ethnic groups, Birkett said that the government remains committed to honouring its unique diversity.
“We see diversity as strength, but we also see that if you do not invest in diversity, it can be used to ferment divisions. And so, we continue every day to work as a government to bring our people together because if we’re stronger together, we would be able to have our
development at a more rapid pace if we are united,” she explained.
The former Minister of Amerindian Affairs highlighted the government’s aggres-
sive drive to bridge the digital divide between coastal and rural communities. She noted that through the Office of the Prime Minister’s expansive hinterland connectivity pro-
gramme, a significant portion of Amerindian communities have already benefitted from internet access.
This, Birkett said, is a critical component of ensur-
ing equitable access for all Guyanese.
“Already, we have had a tremendous increase in digital connectivity to our rural areas because they were the ones who were suffering all along and we continue to engage with several providers for additional connectivity…we realise that if the digital divide continues, we cannot speak of development in a fulsome way,” Birkett posited.
The UPR Working Group will adopt the recommendations made to Guyana on Friday, May 9, 2025.
Guyana’s delegation also included Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, Senior Research Officer in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance and other technical officials.
GLOBAL Asset Integrity & Maintenance Management Services (GAIMMS) Guyana, a leading asset management solutions provider in the energy, marine, and construction sectors, has launched its first welding and fabrication workshop.
According to a press release, this workshop is designed to equip apprentices with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on industrial training.
Geared towards promoting local Guyanese workers in the energy sector with global standards, industrial excellence, and international experience, this programme offers international exchange opportunities with STEP Oil & Gas in Brazil.
This innovative programme, according to the company, distinguishes itself by focusing on real-world industrial practices, ensuring that participants gain skills directly applicable to major projects.
Additionally, successful graduates of the programme will have the opportunity to further refine their expertise through an international exchange programme facilitated by GAIMMS and its joint venture partner, STEP Oil & Gas in Brazil.
According to GAIMMS, this intensive training will cover critical industry topics, including: Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) roles and responsibilities; Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs); Project drawings and dimensional control procedures; and Quality control standards, hold points, and regulatory compliance.
The first cohort of apprentices include five talented individuals (three males and two females), namely: Eliyahu Yisrael, Tia Henry, Shabique Jabbar, Alex Andrews, and Dwayne Winter.
GAIMMS said that these apprentices will join the company’s team on the Yellowtail Steel Fabrication W-BEAMS Project, gaining invaluable on-the-job experience.
Additionally, the five pi-
oneering apprentices will make history as the company’s first locally trained welders to contribute directly to Guyana’s burgeoning hydrocarbon sector, with their skills set to play a vital role in the landmark Yellowtail development.
Marked as a commitment to local capacity building, seasoned Oil and Gas professional, Derek Cardinez, said: “This initiative underscores GAIMMS’ dedication to developing Guyana’s workforce with globally recognised skills,” adding: “By bridging the gap between training and industrial application, we’re preparing Guyanese talent for high-value opportunities in the energy and construction sectors.”
Meanwhile, Director and Business Development Consultant at GAIMMS, Wystan Robertson related: “As a Guyanese company, our aim from inception was to ensure the necessary knowledge transfer to enable a competent local workforce. We started our local workforce training initiative in January 2024 with training in cold work asset maintenance and
repair solutions conducted by the company’s French partner Coldpad, and local facility partner, the Government Technical Institute.
This Welding and Fabrication workshop is conducted by GAIMMS’ certified professionals in partnership with STEP Oil & Gas in Brazil to ensure that participants not only learn best practices but also gain international exposure and global standards.”
Under the leadership of Derek Cardinez, GAIMMS continues to collaborate with the Guyanese workforce to build globally competitive skills in asset management and industrial maintenance, the company said, adding that it delivers innovative asset management solutions for the energy, marine, and construction industries, specialising in maintenance, repair, and operational optimisation.
With a focus on environmentally friendly technologies, GAIMMS brings cutting-edge, safe, and sustainable solutions to Guyana while fostering local expertise.
AMBASSADOR Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett’s spirited defence of Guyana’s human rights record at the UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review this week represents a watershed moment for our nation’s global standing.
As Guyana went through its fourth review since 2010, Birkett articulately described how our nation has converted hardship into opportunity via conscious investment in human rights infrastructure across sectors.
Her speech was not merely a diplomatic courtesy but a firm reiteration of Guyana’s unwavering commitment to upholding the dignity and rights of all citizens irrespective of their ethnicity, geography, or social standing. This commitment to human rights in healthcare, education, prison reform, and responding to domestic violence is proof that this government knows that true national development is impossible without the protection of the basic rights of citizens.
The government’s own human rights policy is beautifully integrated, recognising that social advance rests on a number of interconnected issues being resolved simultaneously.
Birkett’s own emphasis on the administration’s efforts to bridge the digital gap between coastal and rural areas is particularly significant. By bringing the internet to
Amerindian communities under the Office of the Prime Minister’s hinterland connectivity initiative, the government is tackling one of the most pervasive forms of our modern-day inequality.
This isn’t just a matter of technology-it is an ideological commitment to the idea that no Guyanese citizen ought to be left behind in our rapidly expanding economy. As Birkett aptly noted, “if the digital divide continues, we cannot speak of development in a fulsome way.”
Perhaps most inspiring was Ambassador Birkett’s explanation of the government’s approach to Guyana’s rich ethnic tapestry.
Her comment that “We see diversity as strength, but we also see that if you do not invest in diversity, it can be used to ferment divisions” demonstrates a high level of awareness of the possibilities and dangers in our multicultural society.
This perception is consistent with President Ali’s One Guyana vision that Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett previously highlighted as part of the celebrations for Guyana’s 55th Republic Anniversary, in which she asserted that, according to this vision, religious diversity and harmony are not weaknesses but strengths.
The government clearly recognises that national unity does not result from rhetoric but through deliberate investment and persistent effort against those who would exploit differences to pursue political agendas.
The commitment of the government to human rights even reaches those who have been out of favour with the law. Recent prison reforms as practised by Prison Director Nicklon Elliot are a paradigm shift on how Guyana approaches criminal justice.
By reorganising prisons into facilities that are more rehabilitative than punitive, the government is demonstrating a progressive awareness that maintaining human dignity transcends everyone, including inmates.
Elliot’s emphasis on reforming the buildings to provide space that encourages learning, creativity, and reflection is evidence of an administration that believes rehabilitation is a matter of conscience as much as policy necessity in preventing recidivism.
The Prison Service’s effort to provide extensive care to all the prisoners nationwide so they can have the same level of care as members of society also shows compliance with universal human rights.
The state’s response in combating family violence through schemes like the P.A.T.R.O.L. scheme (Police Advanced Training & Readiness for Operational Leverage) illustrates the seriousness of its intention to protect vulnerable segments.
As there is more police readiness and reaction to cases involving family violence and more focus placed on
the recently enacted Family Violence Act 2024, the government is initiating real action in rendering a definite reaction to a serious human rights issue.
This approach, through community outreaches and raising awareness, demonstrates an understanding that effective human rights protection requires sound legal framework and community engagement.
As the UPR Working Group moves towards adoption of recommendations to Guyana on May 9, let us be proud of the strong case that Ambassador Birkett and her Geneva team presented.
Our nation stands at a turning point in its history, developing economically while constructing its human rights infrastructure.
The message that our delegation sent was direct: Guyana sees human rights, not on the fringes of development but at its centre. Despite the inevitable setbacks that are ahead, Guyana is commitment to human rights for all of its people makes our nation an emerging model for people-oriented development in the Caribbean.
The years ahead will certainly try this commitment, but with ongoing investment in our institutions and people, there is every reason to think that Guyana will continue to prosper while protecting the dignity and rights of all who make this country their home.
From page 3
that a selected group of Guyanese benefitted from training through the Indian Technical and Economic Co-operation (ITEC) programme.
“The combination of capacity building and the capitalisation, purchasing the equipment that are needed and modernising the whole facility is ongoing as I speak,” he emphasised.
Prime Minister Phillips used the opportunity to urge everyone to await the results of the investigation.
He also assured that the
ongoing investigation will provide clarity on a number of outstanding issues including the searches done by police ranks.
Admitting that there were several missteps by the police in Regional Division #3, PM Phillips said this investigation will not only bring closure but it will guide the reforming of the Guyana Police Force.
Acknowledging Adriana’s family’s request for investigations to be conducted by international agencies, he said, “It’s a bit too early to tell you who will be the agencies that will come
to Guyana. I can assure you that we’ve already started discussion with our security co-operation partners aimed at getting whatever support, whatever assistance in conducting the inquiry and also in helping us to progress with the reform measures of the police force coming out of an incident like this.”
He highlighted some of the changes already made following the tragedy. These include the change to the police’s standing operating procedure as in relation to a missing person report. He explained that going forward, ranks are now obligated to
take immediate action when such a report is made. He added that the action will involve an interagency response.
Further, he underscored that the reformation of the GPF has already started because of this incident. However, according to him there are greater and more strategic things that are yet to be done.
Expressing his heartfelt sympathy to the family, and reassuring government’s commitment, Prime Minister Phillips stated, “This is an incident that is really, as you truly mentioned, gripped the nation and
Guyanese in the wider diaspora.
As a father of girls and a grandfather of girls, I feel a sense of loss here too.” He emphasised that President Dr. Irfaan Ali has already announced that “we will leave no stone unturned to get down to the bottom of this whole issue.”
Adriana, a promising pupil of the Parika Salem Primary School, had written the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) days before her tragic death and was eagerly awaiting her results. It was always her dream to attend the prestigious Queen’s College. Following the discovery
of her lifeless body in the hotel’s pool, the building was set on fire and enraged ‘protestors’ looted the establishment. Additionally, the home of the hotel’s proprietor was torched by unknown persons. It has since been reported that three internationally respected forensic pathologists have concluded that she died by drowning. Samples taken from the body were sent for testing at the Mount Sinai Hospital and the National Medical Services Laboratory in the United States and the authorities here are awaiting those results.
I DID three columns over the past three years on Henry Jeffrey’s description of the PPP as history’s most invincible organisation.
This invincibility took the form of an article Jeffrey wrote two years ago in which he described in detail how the PPP perpetuated widespread fraud in the 2020 election to make it win the election.
Up to this day, people would bring up the asininity of Jeffrey with me. I remember a man and his wife met me on the seawall and what the lady said and the look on her face had me in uncontrollable laughter.
She spoke in a drooling tone and it was funny to hear. Referring to my column, she said: “Freddie weh Granja de deh when the PPP de rigging the election according to Jeffrey. De man had to be in a coma to allow dat.”
What followed had me in stitches. She went on: “Well de PPP rigged de election in front of Ramjattan because he was drunk at the time”
The lady put it over facetiously, but Henry Jeffrey will forever remain a figure of comedy over his take on the 2020 election.
I repeat the percentage of rigging that Jeffrey said the PPP carried out in the 2020 election in nine of the 10 Regions. R is for Region: R1-34.6%; R2- 74.8%; R3- 67.9 %; R4- 55.4%; R5- 50.5%; R6- 77.4%; R7- 70.50%; R9- 53.7%; R10- 17%.
Can you imagine an opposition party was able to dominate the election machinery completely while the incumbent party simply watched hopelessly?
Only two sets of persons would believe what Jeffrey wrote. One is hopeless idiots, worse than certified morons, and the other is clinically tested mental patients. But one thing is certain, if you believe Jeffrey then you have to concede that the PPP is a supernatural machine that can do anything it wishes to do.
We move on to Ni -
gel Hughes. He rejects a group of forensic investors coming to investigate the death of Adriana Younge from the Regional Security System because they are not to be trusted because of their supposed biased work in investigating the homicide of the two Henry cousins in Cotton Tree in September 2020.
So these Caribbean forensic specialists are smitten by the Guyana Government which influences how they do their work. Again, only an idiot would believe that the ruling party can get these Caribbean professionals to alter their work to please the Guyana Government.
Let’s look now at the same Nigel Hughes. Asked by a journalist about how he feels about the widespread violence against people after the post-mortem result for Adriana Younge was announced on Monday, April 28, Hughes said, the mayhem that afternoon and into the evening was the work of PPP’s agent provocateurs.
The same day he said that, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton earlier, said the identical thing. In fact, Hughes may have copied from Norton.
Now, here you see the PPP as history’s most fantastic machine at work.
The looting, burning and beating of people took place across a huge chunk of Guyana - Regions Three, Four and Five, and the rampaging mobs were in the hundreds.
For the PPP to have inserted agent provocateurs in such a large part of Guyana within a time frame of minutes, it has to be the history’s greatest supernatural force.
The mobilisation of the agent provocateurs had to be a mammoth almost impossible task. Hundreds of people had to be mobilised in the space of minutes with dozens of vehicles to transport people to hundreds of locations where fire and looting were raging including 30 supermarkets that were emptied.
And the geographical stretch takes in downtown
Georgetown to Hopetown in Region Five then up the East Bank way into Region Three.
The PPP has to be the most powerful force never before seen in history to achieve such a task. To coordinate the looting of 30 supermarkets involving hundreds of looters in the space of an hour is impossible, but according to Hughes and Norton, the PPP did it. But there is a factor that Hughes and Norton did not mention.
For the PPP to do what it has been accused by Norton and Hughes of doing, then it is an inescapable fact that the PPP has taken over traditional PNC strongholds. Fires were raging in Hope -
town, a place where the PNC is popular. Fires were lit in Agricola, another PNC stronghold. How did the PPP accomplish that?
Nothing of what Hughes and Norton described happened. There were no agent provoca-
teurs out on the streets burning, looting and beating people. These were thugs, goons, killers and irredeemable monsters that threw acid on the face of schoolchildren.
Hughes and Norton need to apologise a mil-
lion times to this nation.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
- Vice President Jagdeo orders; reminds
VICE President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Wednesday, met with truck operators involved in housing and infrastructure projects along the East Coast of Demerara corridor.
Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill, and other technical staff from various ministries were also present during the meeting at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
According to information from the Ministry of Housing and Water, the meeting was convened to address residents' complaints about disruptions caused by the trucks working on major infrastructur-
al projects.
The concerns raised included dust pollution, noise, reckless driving, and the noise and vibrations caused by the trucks' tailgates.
During the meeting, the Vice President emphasised that all contractors and subcontractors will be held accountable for these disruptions.
He noted that moving forward, the involved agencies will collaborate with the Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force to implement traffic measures. This will include designated routes for trucks to access their work sites and the establishment of speed limits.
Additionally, the
Vice President reminded contractors of their obligation to periodically water dry and dusty roads, and to ensure their trucks are covered while transporting materials.
AUTHORITIES are still investigating the devastating fire that destroyed three dwelling houses at Pike Street, Kitty, Georgetown, on May 1st, 2025 (Labour Day) leaving several families displaced and counting their losses.
Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday, Chief Fire Officer of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) Gregory Wickham, confirmed that the origin of the fire remains undetermined as the probe continues.
The midday inferno erupted between Pike and Thomas Streets and quickly consumed three residential buildings believed to be apartment-style complexes before firefighters could contain it.
Tenders were deployed from both street entrances to battle the fast-moving blaze, but the fire had already engulfed one building and rapidly spread to the others.
Eyewitnesses recalled seeing thick smoke shortly before the flames became visible, prompting residents to scramble to safety.
Among the evacuees were elderly persons in their 80s and 90s, who were assisted to safety by family members and neighbours.
Ezekiel Charles, a 17-year-old resident who was home studying at the time, recalled hearing loud explosions before spotting the fire. He quickly acted to lead others out of the house.
Most residents lost everything in the blaze and are now temporarily seeking shelter with relatives and friends, as they contemplate how to rebuild their lives.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali visited the scene shortly after the incident to meet with affected families and pledged government support.
On the ground, he was informed that the fire appeared to have started in one building and quickly spread to the others.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, many of the displaced residents remain in shock, yet grateful that there were no fatalities.
However, the fire service successfully prevented further destruction to nearby homes by quickly dousing adjacent structures.
FARMERS in West Berbice, part of the West Berbice Sheep and Goat Association (WBSGA), have celebrated the positive impact of the Black Belly Sheep Project, launched under the leadership of President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. This initiative, de -
bulatory care, training, and monitoring.
Yvonne Morris, a seasoned livestock farmer from Golden Grove, West Coast Berbice, shared that the introduction of black belly rams and ewes, combined with the use of ‘slotted floor’ pens, has led to healthier off-
Farmers in West Berbice, part of the West Berbice Sheep and Goat Association (WBSGA), have celebrated the positive impact of the Black Belly Sheep project, launched under the leadership of President, Dr. Irfaan Ali
signed to boost sheep production and meet local and regional demands, involved the importation of 1,000 Barbados black belly sheep, which were distributed nationwide to enhance the genetics of local flocks.
In Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), the results have been impressive, with notable improvements in birth and weaning weights.
This success is attributed to the introduction of black belly sheep, as well as comprehensive support services provided by the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), including extension services, am-
the GLDA Region Five extension team, led by Dr. Dilchand and Sachi Hercules.
His daughter, a member of WBSGA, received a black belly ram, and he is already seeing a high conception rate and is looking forward to healthy offspring in the upcoming lambing season.
Small ruminant farmer, Ramdat Baichoo, who transitioned from goat farming, has also benefitted from the Black Belly Sheep Project.
He highlighted the quality of his flock’s offspring and the development of his sheep herd thanks to the introduction of the black belly ram and slotted floor pens.
He expressed gratitude for the support from GLDA staff, particularly Carmen Fleming, who facilitated his expansion into sheep farming.
Region Five is home to over 60 per-
spring and improved flock quality. With over 10 years of experience as a shepherdess, Morris also praised the continuous support from the GLDA team.
Similarly, Shepherd, an experienced farmer, noted the exceptional service provided by
cent of Guyana’s small ruminant population, with farmers adopting a mix of intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive farming systems. Some are even transitioning to feedlot systems to accelerate lamb growth and fattening for slaughter.
- process takes approximately 15 minutes to complete, bank says
SCOTIABANK has introduced a digital onboarding process, enabling persons interested in opening accounts, to do so online via the Scotia Caribbean App and Scotia OnLine Banking.
According to a press release from the bank, online account opening promotes an improved signup experience that provides a simple, fast and secure way for clients to bank with Scotiabank, without the need to visit the branch.
Country Manager of Scotiabank Guyana, Nafeeza Gaffoor said: “Stream -
lining and simplifying the digital onboarding processes is also crucial to ensuring smooth digital transitions.
At Scotiabank, we are consistently focused on delivering new innovations that make life easier for our clients and this starts from the moment they join the bank.
“That is why it became very important for us to introduce a convenient onboarding experience as a key factor in our digital transformation thrust.”
Step by step guides have been included on the bank’s website so that clients have a clear understanding of
the process, which takes an average of 15 minutes to complete, the bank said.
“To apply for an account, new-to-bank clients are asked to first agree to the Bank’s Digital Access and Privacy Agreements. Following this, they input the required personal information to create their profile, validate their information and submit the application.
“Once the account is set up, clients can take advantage of Scotiabank’s anytime, anywhere banking services,” Scotiabank said.
$2.2B water treatment plant to be built at Adventure to serve 5,000 people
THE government will invest $2.2 billion to construct a brand-new water treatment plant at Adventure in Region Six.
Construction works on the treatment facility are scheduled to be completed in 2026. It will benefit approximately 5,000 people from Tain to Number 50 Villages when it is completed.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, made the announcement
The government will invest $2.2 billion to construct a brand-new water treatment plant
during a recent housing drive in the region.
The Adventure plant is one of five treatment plants funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
Residents were reassured that the government was making targeted investments totalling about $3 billion in the region’s water sector to improve
water access and quality.
“This is to ensure that everyone eventually must get 24-hour water and treated water coming through your taps,” he stated, before noting, “That’s the commitment we have given for the coastland.”
Rehabilitation and expansion works have been carried out on the Port Mourant and New Am -
sterdam treatment plants, resulting in improved service delivery and water supply to residents.
The plant at New Amsterdam is earmarked for completion in June 2025, supplying treated water to 5,000 more customers in Vryheid, Stanleytown, Smythfield, and Tucber Park.
The government is also updating and enhancing the transmission networks to provide greater access to a reliable supply of clean water.
Minister Croal disclosed that $50 million more will be invested to upgrade the in-line filters at Chesney, Edinburg, Number 69 Village, Johanna, Crabwood Creek and Mibicuri by the end of June. This will benefit hundreds of residents.
The minister further disclosed, “We received the no-objection for the awarding of a contract for the drilling of a new well at Yakasari/Johanna that will address every complaint for water in Black Bush [Polder]. Another $300 million [will be invested] there…We want to ensure that the level of service is at a certain level for everyone.”
A new well is being constructed in the community of Mara, and six smaller treatment plants are under construction in the region. They are expected to be completed by mid-2025.
All these initiatives are part of the administration’s broader goal of providing treated water to 90 per cent of residents in Region Six. (DPI)
(From page 19)
Zimbabwe before retiring in 2023, saying he "no longer has the desire to dedicate himself" to professional sport.
"We are thrilled to welcome Gary Ballance to our coaching set-up for this historic tour," said Zimbabwe's managing director Givemore Makoni.
"His deep understanding of English conditions, gained over years of playing at the highest level, will be a valuable asset to our team's tactical preparation."
Ballance scored 1,653 runs at an average of 40.31 in Tests.
After taking 10 Tests or
17 innings to reach 1,000 Test runs - he was the third fastest to that landmark for England behind Herbert Sutcliffe and Len Huttonhe faded and was dropped in 2017.
He played for Yorkshire between 2008 and 2021 and admitted he was responsible for some of the offensive terms Azeem Rafiq was subjected to during his time at Headingley.
England and Zimbabwe meet in a one-off Test at Trent Bridge from 22 May. It will be the first time the two sides have played a Test since 2003. (BBC Sport)
(Tuesday, May 6, 2025)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Manish Panday (KKR) (2) Rohit Sharma (MI)
Today’s Quiz:
was voted Man of the Final in
Who
in
the
RACING TIPS
in
THE Golden State Warriors' win against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round of the NBA play-offs was soured by a hamstring injury to Stephen Curry.
The 37-year-old came off before half-time in game one of the series after pulling up during the Warriors' 99-88 win in Minneapolis.
before signalling to the bench that he needed to be replaced.
Buddy Hield, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green shared the scoring burden in Curry's absence, hitting 62 points between them.
Curry is likely to miss game two (Friday, 9 May, 01:30 BST) at least, as the Warriors wait on the results of the scan.
Stephen Curry will have a MRI scan on his injured hamstring
The two-time MVP clutched the back of his left leg after a defensive play and initially tried to carry on
"We're definitely game-planning for him to not be available for game two but we don't know yet," said
Warriors coach Steve Kerr.
"With a hamstring, it's hard to imagine that he would play.
"I talked to him at halftime, he's obviously crushed. The guys picked him up and played a great game but we're all concerned about Steph.
"It's part of the game. Guys get hurt, you move on."
Haliburton puts Pacers two ahead
Tyrese Haliburton hit a game-winning three-pointer as the Indiana Pacers shocked top seeds he Cleveland Cavaliers in game two of their second-round play-off.
The Pacers had been trailing throughout the match until a sensational fourth quarter, when they outscored the Cavaliers 36-21.
The Cavaliers, winners of the Eastern Conference, had a 20-point lead at one stage.
But, after a spirited fightback in the final minutes,
give his side a 2-0 lead in the series.
FORMER batter Gary Ballance will be part of Zimbabwe's coaching staff during the four-day Test against England later this month.
Ballance, 35, played 23 Tests and 16 one-day internationals for England between 2013 and 2017.
Gary Ballance scored four hundreds in 42 innings for England (Turn to page 18)
After admitting using racist language as part of the Yorkshire racism scandal in 2021, Ballance signed a two-year deal to play for Zimbabwe - the country of his birth. He played one Test, five ODIs and one T20 for
NO matches between India and Pakistan should take place amid the ongoing tensions after the Kashmir militant attack, says India men's coach Gautam Gambhir.
Twenty-six civilians were killed in Indian-administered Kashmir last month and India has accused Pakistan of supporting militants behind the attack - an allegation Pakistan has rejected.
The nations currently only play each other in global events because of longstanding tensions and are due to meet at the Women's World Cup later this year.
Asked if matches should continue, Gambhir said: "Absolutely not."
He said there "should not be anything between India and Pakistan" until the situation is resolved.
He was speaking on Tuesday, before India's airstrikes on Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
India and Pakistan last
Gautam Gambhir played 58 Tests, 147 one-day internationals and 37 T20s for India
met in the Champions Trophy in February. That match was played in Dubai because the India refused to travel to Pakistan for the tournament. Fixtures at world tournaments, such as World Cups and the Champions Trophy, are dictated by the International Cricket Council and the event's schedule.
India-Pakistan fixtures
generate significant income, are regularly the mostwatched and are played at the largest stadiums.
Outside of that, matches are arranged by the national boards, but India and Pakistan have not met since Pakistan toured India in 2013.
Their men's sides could meet at the T20 World Cup next year.
"Ultimately, this is government's decision whether we play them or not," said Gambhir, a former member of parliament for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
"I have said this before also: no cricket match or Bollywood or any other interaction is more important than the life of Indian soldiers and Indian citizens.
"Matches will keep happening, movies will be made, singers will continue to perform, but nothing comes close to losing a loved one in your family."
After the attack on 22
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, (CMC) – Nerissa Crafton hit an attacking half century and Afy Fletcher grabbed four wickets to lead the Windward Islands Women to a dominant 53run victory over the Leeward Islands Women when the Women’s T20 Blaze continued here on Wednesday.
Crafton top scored with 52 as the Windward Islands posted 129 for seven in their 20 overs after being sent in at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.
Fletcher then ran through the Leeward Islands middle order to help bowl them out for 76 in 19.1 overs.
Crafton along with Jannillea Glasgow gave the Windward Islands a perfect start, with the pair sharing an opening partnership of 80 runs in under 10 overs. However, the Leeward Islands bowled themselves back into the contest after leg spinner Rozel Liburd dismissed Crafton to leave the score 80 for one.
Crafton faced 36 balls
and hit five fours and three sixes. From thereon, the Windward Islands struggled to score runs, only managing 49 runs from their last 10 overs. Glasgow, who made 27 from 38 balls and Ashlene Edward, who scored 14, were the only other batters to score in double digits.
Shawnisha Hector was the pick of the Leeward Islands bowlers with 2-14.
Fletcher then helped to derail the Leeward Islands
efforts in their run chase to give her side the advantage.
Glasgow did the early damage, claiming two early wickets as the Leeward Islands slipped from 34 for one to 37 for four.
Fletcher then sealed the victory by dismissing Jahzara Claxton, Kimberly Anthony for a duck and Divya Saxena to put them in even more trouble at 61 for eight.
Fletcher finished with 4-11, Glasgow took 2-13 and Zaida James 2-22.
April, India introduced several measures against Pakistan, including suspending a water-sharing agreement and banning Pakistani aircraft from its airspace.
Pakistan responded with numerous tit-for-tat-measures, while Instagram accounts of a number of Pakistani film actors and celebrities were blocked in India.
India has not named any group it suspected of carrying out the attack in Pahalgam and it remains unclear who did it.
Indian police have al -
leged two of the attackers were Pakistani nationals, with Delhi accusing Pakistan of supporting militants - a charge Islamabad denies. It says it has nothing to do with the 22 April attacks.
The situation escalated on Tuesday evening when India launched a series of strikes in a move named "Operation Sindoor".
Pakistan's military spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said at least 26 people were killed and 46 injured.
India's army said at least
15 civilians were killed by Pakistani shelling on its side of the de facto border in Kashmir.
Today’s match in the Indian Premier League between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals is scheduled to take place in Dharamsala in the state of Himachal Pradesh, which borders Kashmir.
A number of flights into Dharamsala's airport were cancelled on Wednesday following directives from aviation authorities in India. (BBC Sport)
JEMIMAH Rodrigues' career-best 123 was instrumental in India's win over South Africa in Colombo that sent them to the tri-series final.
Rodrigues' ton helped India post a commanding 337 on the board and despite looking down and out in the run chase for the major part of it, South Africa put up a commendable fight in the final 10 overs before eventually falling short by 23 runs. As a result of this loss, South Africa were eliminated despite having one more game left to play in the series.
Chasing their first win of the series, South Africa received an early jolt when Lara Goodall edged one to the keeper in just the second over.
Miane Smit and Tazmin Brits led a recovery but South Africa still made only 40 runs from the opening 10 overs which meant the required rate had shot up. Both Brits and Smit were then sent packing in quick succession and South Africa were forced to rebuild again. Annerie Dercksen then led her side's charge with a fruitful stand for the fourth wicket but South Africa were always in need of a spell where they could accumulate quick runs.
While Dercksen kept fighting, South Africa were in deep trouble at 188/5 which is when Chloe Tryon walked out. Needing 128 from the final ten overs, Tryon and Der-
cksen pressed on the accelerator with the former smashing a six each in successive overs.
Sneh Rana was then picked apart for 19 in an over which brought the equation down to 82 off 36.
Earlier in the day, India got off to a poor start, losing three wickets inside the powerplay. Pratika Rawal was back in the pavilion after just eight deliveries into the innings and Harleen Deol inside-edged one onto her stumps in the very next over.
Even though Harmanpreet Kaur got off to a bright start, fetching six boundaries, the skipper was sent packing for 28 much to South Africa's delight that reduced India to 50/3 in just 7 overs.
Smriti Mandhana and
Rodrigues then pulled off a commendable job to arrest a slide with a solid partnership that saw the opener bring up another half-century in her career. At the other end, Rodrigues made a start similar to Harmanpreet and raced to 28 off just 20 balls at one point and reached her fifty off just 40 balls. But just when it appeared like Mandhana would convert another start into a big one, South Africa struck with the left-hander mistiming one to get caught near the deep midwicket boundary. Any hopes of respite for South Africa were quickly brushed away as Deepti Sharma and Rodrigues put on a century stand to deflate the opposition.
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, (CMC) – Chinelle Henry hit an even, unbeaten century, the first of this year’s Women’s T20 Blaze, as defending champions Jamaica Women crushed Barbados Women by 62 runs here on Wednesday.
Henry’s heroics helped Jamaica recover from 11-3 to post a competitive 149 for five from their 20 overs at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.
Needing to score at just over seven runs an over, Barbados Women were never up to the task and at the end of their 20 overs they had limped to 87 for four to fall to their fourth straight defeat.
Henry revived the innings in a 70-run partnership with opener Rashada Williams, who scored a patient 25 from 42 deliveries.
And when Williams and Keneshia Ferron perished to leave the score 105 for five in the 17th over, Henry dominated an unbroken 44-run stand with Lena Scott, who
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – As the Trinidad and Tobago national football team prepares for a demanding slate of matches, including the Unity Cup, crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers, and the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, head coach Dwight Yorke is urging fans to remain patient and keep faith in his squad.
The Soca Warriors’ first challenge comes at the Unity Cup, held at Brentford FC’s Gtech Community Stadium in West London from May 27-31.
contributed just three runs. Henry bludgeoned off spinner Naijanni Cumberbatch for 29 runs in the penultimate over, hitting her for five consecutive boundaries to move into the 90s.
She then got to her century of the very last ball of the innings, by scampering two runs off the bowling of Connell.
In all, Henry faced 49 balls and struck eight sixes and six fours.
Connell was Barbados’
best bowler, taking 3-14. Barbados’ batters then struggled to get the ball off the square in an unimpressive run chase.
Despite losing just four wickets, they never threatened the target with Naijanni Cumberbatch scoring a laboured 35 off 56 balls, while Asabi Callender’s unbeaten knock of 30 required 46 balls.
Neisha-Ann Waisome took 2-10 for Jamaica Women.
They will open the tournament against Caribbean rivals Jamaica on May 27, while African powerhouses Ghana and Nigeria face off the following day. The winners advance to the final on May 31, with the losers battling for third place.
Next up are two pivotal World Cup qualifiers, a home clash against St. Kitts and Nevis on June 6 at Hasely Crawford Stadium, followed by an away trip to Costa Rica on June 10.
Currently sitting second in their group with four points, two behind leaders Costa Rica, Yorke’s men must secure strong results to stay on track for a spot in the final qualifying round.
“We’re excited for the Unity Cup, but qualifying for the Gold Cup was a major achievement,” Yorke said in a TTFA media release on May 4. However, our immediate focus is the World Cup qualifiers, these are serious games for us.”
Yorke expressed confidence in his current squad, despite the lack of star power like some of the other more fancied regional outfits.
“I have a good feeling about this team. We can bring T&T football back to the top, but we need support. There will be challenges, but trust in me and the players to deliver.”
After the qualifiers, T&T will compete in the Gold Cup from June 14 to July 6, having earned their place with a dominant 6-1 aggregate playoff win over Cuba. They face a tough Group D, featuring Haiti, Saudi Arabia, and the USA, who thrashed them 6-0 in the 2023 edition.
With a gruelling schedule ahead, Yorke emphasised the importance of managing player fitness.
“We have four games in 12 days, including travel, so we must be smart. While we respect all competitions, the World Cup qualifier against St. Kitts is our top priority.”
WEST Indies allrounder
Andre Russell could be set for a new chapter in his globe-trotting T20 career following reports that former India captain Sourav Ganguly has offered him a place in the Pretoria Capitals squad for the 2026 SA20 season.
According to Anandabazar Patrika, the offer was extended during a meeting between Russell and Ganguly after the Kolkata Knight Riders’ thrilling one-run victory over Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on May 4. The 37-year-old Russell played a pivotal role in that win and has returned to top form during the 2024 IPL season.
Ganguly, who served as a mentor of the Delhi Capitals during the 2023 and 2024 IPL
seasons, is currently Director of Cricket at JSW Sports—the company responsible for managing the Pretoria Capitals in the SA20 league.
The Capitals are part of a global franchise network split between GMR and JSW, who co-own Delhi Capitals in the IPL. GMR oversees the men’s team in the IPL and the Dubai Capitals in the ILT20, while JSW manages the Pretoria Capitals and Delhi Capitals’ women’s team in the WPL. This structure will remain until 2027 when the groups will swap responsibilities. Russell, reportedly receptive to the offer, is said to have responded positively, and Ganguly is hopeful a deal will be finalized. If completed, the move would mark a return of sorts for Russell, who began
his IPL career with Delhi Capitals in 2012 before becoming a household name at Kolkata Knight Riders, where he has
since become a key figure across their global teams. Although Russell is a central figure in the Knight Riders
franchise group, featuring for KKR in the IPL, Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20),
and Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC), the brand does not operate a team in South Africa’s SA20 league—making Russell free to explore other opportunities.
A significant factor supporting the move is a change in the SA20 schedule. Cricket South Africa has confirmed that the 2026 SA20 season will begin earlier, starting December 26, 2025, which may avoid clashes with the ILT20, a frequent source of conflict for multi-league players like Russell.
If he accepts the offer, Russell would bring immense firepower and experience to the Pretoria Capitals as they look to build a championship-calibre squad for the upcoming season. (Sportsmax)