Guyana Times - Hero CPL T20 Supplement

CPL: Bringing families together CPL Super Fan:

July 2016

Krystal Lee Lee lives for the thrill of the “Biggest Party in Sport�

July 2016

Page 710 Page

Complimentary Copy

CPL: Bringing families together

2

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

3

Messages Message from Prime Minister and First Vice President The Honourable Moses V. Nagamootoo

T

he Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has galvanized cricket fans across the Caribbean with an exciting brand of cricket which has energized the region. Guyana has played a central role in the CPL both on the field and off and our country’s involvement has enhanced the product, which is world class.

The CPL, branded Cricket Played Louder, is indeed the biggest party in sport. It has revitalized waning interest in cricket in the region and has sparked a renewed vigour. There has been innovation and phenomenal play on the field which has been matched by the enthusiastic and infectious dynamism by the fans who have flocked to the games.

Sport in general, and particularly cricket, plays an integral role in the fulsome and all round development of our people. In a 2013 article, Jay Busbee observed that former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela “realized the transformative and unifying power of sports, and used that power to make changes that protests and diplomacy could not.”

Sport causes us to gather together as Caribbean people. But cricket binds us irrevocably into a united, cohesive Region. It serves as perhaps the ultimate example to us that when we combine our diverse skills and talents, we can achieve the most difficult and seemingly illusive of goals. Cricket is the epicenter of sports in our region and in our country. Guyana would not be where it is today without cricket. The CPL is leading the way in revolutionizing the game as it charts the way forward.

Guyana is synonymous with cricket. The contest between bat and ball lives in our veins. We are not merely connected to cricket. We are cricket. Though CPL is played in many countries, it is difficult to imagine how it resonates within the very being of the fans as it does so viscerally here in Guyana. The enjoyment is palpable and unbridled.

On behalf of the government and people of Guyana I welcome the CPL, the players, the officials, broadcasters, sponsors, fans and all others associated with the tournament to our shores and trust that and enjoyable time would be had by all, win, lose or super over.

Message from Chief Operations Officer CPL Pete Russell

I

am delighted to be back in Guyana and can’t wait for the start of four more exciting and memorable CPL games to begin this week at the National Stadium. This is a wonderful time to be in Guyana as the country celebrates its 50th anniversary and we are delighted to be a part of those celebrations.

Over 56,000 people watched the games last year and I am sure even more will turn out to cheer the Warriors on this year. At CPL, we look at Guyana as being the cornerstone of our tournament, bringing passion and fun to this great event I wish Martin Guptil and his team the very best of luck and I know you will all bring the same passionate support as in previous years. Let’s make this a 50th birthday party to remember!

4

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

Messages MINISTRY OF PUBLIC TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Message from Minister Catherine A. Hughes, M.P.

C

ricket, lovely Cricket!

These three words resonate in our collective consciousness across the entire Caribbean. Our universal love of this game has taken us through several droughts but it has sustained us, kept us faithful to our cricketers, whether they play for the Knight Riders or the Zouks, the Patriots, the Tallawahs or the mighty Amazon Warriors. The players are all ours. They were all born into this cook-up, this pelau and saltfish that make up CARICOM. I take this opportunity to extend our warmest welcome to the players, their families, fans and friends. If this is your first visit to this Land of Many Waters, a heartier Welcome is yours. Try to make the very best of this opportunity to experience Guyana in all its colourful glory – to see up close the mighty Kaieteur Falls, or the Orinduik Falls; the rolling hinterland savannahs and the roaring Essequibo River.

Get a firsthand look at the scenery and greenery, the flora and fauna which numerous film crews from the BBC, CNN, from Animal Planet, the History Channel and documentary producers for popular survivor-type shows like “Naked and Afraid” have found so appealing. There’s a lot more to Guyana than the Coastal Plains.

Live Cricket, the 2016 CPL games in particular, gives us yet another reason to celebrate our 50th year as an Independent nation. Earlier in the year the WI Under 19 team snatched the Cricket World Cup for the first time from India, in India. Our youngsters stood strong against a perennial winner, read the game extremely well, knuckled down to play with panache and they gained the respect of the cricketing world.

In fact, recent months have delivered quite a handful of victories to the region. The WI team is riding on the crest of an emotional four-wicket victory over England, and a T20 win in Kolkata. My deepest feeling of pride in accomplishment, however, is reserved for the 2016 World T20 Women’s Champions, West Indies, who staged some amazing feats in the middle.

We dare hope that this marks the beginning of another long spell of West Indian Cricketing dominance, that swashbuckling, fearless attack that has historically characterized the team and its satellites across the region.

We raise our calypso-coloured hats to the fighting Amazon Warriors, and simultaneously open our arms in welcome to the Zouks, the Patriots, the Night Riders and the Tallawahs.

Welcome to Guyana, and may the Best Team win.

Catherine A. Hughes MP Minister

Message from Honourable Nicolette Henry, MP Minister within the Ministry of Education

A

s Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, I join with all Guyanese, especially cricket lovers, in welcoming the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T-20 teamswhich, no doubt, will once again ( for the fourth time) provide the kind of excitement at our National Stadium, that undoubtedly no other sport in Guyana or the Caribbean can provide.

I wish to reiterate the government’s commitment to the development of sport ingeneral within the country. No one can doubt that the game of cricket, arguably is the only activity that brings a spirit of oneness, not only among Guyanese, but the Caribbean at large, whenever it is played.

It is expected, therefore, that an electrifying and unifying atmosphere will permeate the National Stadium in the next few days as the several teams vie for supremacy. Enjoy it to the fullest.

Let me once again welcome all and sundry to the several days of captivating cricket that the CPL teams will provide.

Good luck to all the teams, but more particularly the Amazon Warriors whom we would like to be crowned champions this time around.

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

5

Messages Message from Chairman of the Guyana Amazon Warriors Dr Ranjisinghi Ramroop

O

n behalf of the Management, general staff, coaching staff and members of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, I would like to renew the pledge we made when the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) was launched in 2013: “We see cricket as the binding force of our Caribbean nation. We will spare no expense and leave no stone unturned to ensure that the game in our region is brought back to the pinnacle of its crowning glory,” In the three years since, our commitment has been rewarded by the tremendous support you, the fans, have shown to our team. The name of “Guyana” in our team’s name was not chosen by chance: it was intended to reinforce our identification with, and love for, this land that has given birth to all of us. Linking it with “Amazon” was not just a matter of geography, but also of outlook. It reinforces our position that the style and flair of T-20 cricket is as natural to our region as our green Amazonian forests.

There were many who felt that we in the Caribbean could not match the professionalism that is demanded in this new form of the game that demands a corporate approach.

We have proven those critics wrong because today, the CPL is universally acknowledged as among the top three professional T-20 leagues. Because of this, it has attracted foreign direct investment for its teams and large infusions of cash into the economies of the countries in which the games are played - including Guyana.

As the binding force of the Guyanese and wider Caribbean nation, CPL had to also start with the family, which is the building block of all societies. Over the past three years and today - just look up from reading this and glance around! - CPL has brought out families as in no other sport. And we know the family that plays together stays together - both the individual families from every group in our society and the collective families that make up our West Indian people.

Our Guyana Amazon Warriors have done us proud in being consistently n the top tier of the CPL. This year, with the support of you, their most loyal fans, will have to reach within themselves make that extra effort to go all the way.

GO GUYANA !!! GO WARRIORS!! ONWARDS TO VICTORY!!!

Message from Omar Khan Team Operations Manager Guyana Amazon Warriors

I

am indeed honoured and delighted to be given the opportunity to be a member of the Management Staff of the Guyana Amazon Warriors team for the 2016 Hero CPL. Having being part of the team since the inception of CPL in 2013 my aim has always been to lend that professional and business structural support to the team by ensuring all the administrative and logistical arrangements are in place for the team so that the players can concentrate on focussing on their task of playing good cricket so as to bring the victory in each game and winning the tournament.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors Team is very fortunate to have a Franchise Owner in the person of Dr. Ranjisinghi “Bobby” Ramroop, who is passionate about the game and the overall development of the young cricketers in Guyana.

This year we welcome back Martin Guptill to our team and we are all very happy that he has accepted the role as Captain. We also warmly welcome new International players Chris Lynn, Sohail Tanveer and Adam Zampa and regional players Dwayne Smith, Rayad Emrit, Jason Mohammed, Orlando Peters and Steven Katwaroo as members of the Amazon Warriors family. We also happy to retain local players Christopher Barnwell, Devindra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul ,Assad Fudadin, Paul Wintz and successful West Indies Under-19 Captain Shimron Hetmyer. Steven Jacobs makes a return to the team and we also welcome the ICC Americas Player – the promising fast bowler – Mohammad Arshan Ali Khan. .

We do have a professional and diligent Team Support Staff led by Head Coach Roger Harper and includes Assistant Coach Esuan Crandon, Strength and Conditioning Coach Clinton Jeremiah, Physiotherapist Jason Pilgrim and Massage Therapist Kurlyn Smith –Nicholas. Together we have a fantastic working relationship which I am sure will redound to the performances of all team members.

I call on all of Guyana to come out and enjoy the excitement of the 2016 CPL and support your Guyana Amazon Warriors team in their quest to become Champions of the Hero 2016 CPL.

6

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2016 - FIXTURES 1. Wed Jun 29 - 21:00 Hrs - Trinbago Knight Riders v St Lucia Zouks Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago

18. Sun Jul 17 - 19:00 Hrs - Barbados Tridents v St Lucia Zouks, Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados

2. Thu Jun 30 - 20:00 Hrs - St Kitts and Nevis Patriots v Guyana Amazon Warriors, Warner Park Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

19. Mon Jul 18 20:00 Hrs - Jamaica Tallawahs v Trinbago Knight Riders, Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica

3. Fri Jul 1 - 21:00 Hrs - Trinbago Knight Riders v Barbados Tridents, Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago

20. Wed Jul 20 20:00 Hrs - Jamaica Tallawahs v Barbados Tridents, Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica

4. Sat Jul 2 - 12:00 Hrs - St Kitts and Nevis Patriots v Jamaica Tallawahs, Warner Park, Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis

21. Thu Jul 21 18:00 Hrs - St Lucia Zouks v St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

5. Sat Jul 2 - 21:00 Hrs - Trinbago Knight Riders v Guyana Amazon Warriors, Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain Trinidad & Tobago

22. Sat Jul 23 12:00 local - St Lucia Zouks v Barbados Tridents, Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

6. Sun Jul 3 - 16:00 Hrs - St Kitts and Nevis Patriots v St Lucia Zouks, Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

23. Sun Jul 24 17:00 - St Lucia Zouks v Guyana Amazon Warriors, Darren Sammy National Cricket, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

7. Mon Jul 4 - 19:00 Hrs - Trinbago Knight Riders v Jamaica Tallawahs, Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago

24. Tue Jul 26 18:00 - St Lucia Zouks v Trinbago Knight Riders, Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

8. Tue Jul 5 - 19:00 Hrs - St Kitts and Nevis Patriots v Barbados Tridents, Warner Park, Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis

25. Thu Jul 28 19:00 - Barbados Tridents v Guyana Amazon Warriors, Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida, USA

9. Thu Jul 7 - 19:00 Hrs - Guyana Amazon Warriors v Jamaica Tallawahs, Providence Stadium, Guyana

26. Fri Jul 29 19:00 - St Kitts and Nevis Patriots v Trinbago Knight Riders, Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida, USA

10. Sat Jul 9 - 12:00 Hrs - Guyana Amazon Warriors v St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, Providence Stadium, Guyana

27. Sat Jul 30 12:00 local - Jamaica Tallawahs v St Lucia Zouks, Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida, USA

11. Sun Jul 10 - 19:00 Hrs - Guyana Amazon Warriors v Trinbago Knight Riders, Providence Stadium, Guyana

28. Sat Jul 30 16:00 - Barbados Tridents v Guyana Amazon Warriors, Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida, USA

12. Mon Jul 11 - 20:00 Hrs - Barbados Tridents v Jamaica Tallawahs, Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados

29. Sun Jul 31 12:00 - St Kitts and Nevis Patriots v Trinbago Knight Riders, Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida, USA

13. Tue Jul 12 - 19:00 Hrs - Guyana Amazon Warriors v St Lucia Zouks, Providence Stadium, Guyana

30. Sun Jul 31 16:00 - Jamaica Tallawahs v St Lucia Zouks, Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida, USA

14. Wed Jul 13 - 20:00 Hrs - Barbados Tridents v St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados

31. Wed Aug 3 Playoff 1 - TBC v TBC (1st v 2nd) Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

15. Fri Jul 15 - 20:00 Hrs - Jamaica Tallawahs v Guyana Amazon Warriors, Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica

32. Thu Aug 4 Playoff 2 - TBC v TBC (3rd v 4th) Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

16. Sat Jul 16 - 12:00 Hrs - Barbados Tridents v Trinbago Knight Riders, Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados

33. Fri Aug 5 Playoff 3 - TBC v TBC (Playoff 2 Winner v Playoff 1 Loser), Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

17. Sat Jul 16 - 18:00 Hrs - Jamaica Tallawahs v St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica

34. Sun Aug 7 Final - TBC v TBC (Playoff 1 Winner v Playoff 3 Winner), Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

7

8

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

CPL right up there – Lynn

By Akeem Greene

H

aving played 68 Twenty20 matches in his developing career before CPL 2016, Australian Christopher Austin Lynn can be considered one of the young globe-trotting cricketers, with appearances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Kolkata Knight Riders, the Big Bash league (BBL) among others, is of the view that the Hero Caribbean league (CPL) is just as exciting as other world tournaments.

“CPL is an exciting and fairly new competition; it brings a variety of players from around the world together to compete in the Caribbean, not just for high quality cricket but an amazing atmosphere and Chris Lynn lifestyle,” Lynn opined.

A momentous feature of this year’s

tournament is that it moves to state of Florida in the United States of America and the cricketer who is widely known for his stunning exploits in the outfield, is excited of the over the expansion of the CPL. “[It’s] great that the CPL has gone to Florida; we as players are about expanding the game of cricket and for us to experience cricket in America is fantastic, Imagine if it takes off!!! Party in the USA!,” Expressed Lynn.

Warriors chances good!

The Dynamic batsman has expressed confidence in the Guyana Amazon Warriors ending the title drought by copping the coveted trophy this year.

The Amazon Warriors would have made the play-offs trice, of which they went on to play the finals twice but unfortunately could not add the icing to the cake after three

Lynn has already been of good use to the Warriors in CPL 2016, smashing eight sixes in a blitz to secure a victory over the Trinbago Knight Riders on July 2. (CPL T20 Ltd.2016)

good seasons.

“Guyana is more than capable of winning the CPL; you get a couple of players inform and peak at the right time then we will have every chance to dominate the tournament. The underdog status will suit us perfect,” the attacking batsman said.

Lynn, who was raked in by the Warriors’ at the players’ draft in February for US$90,000, is no stranger to titles, having captained the Brisbane Heat to the title in this year’s Big Bash League (BBL) where he was also voted the player of the tournament.

During the BBL, he amassed 378 runs off 218 balls, smacking 27 sixes and 23 fours, with a highest score of 101.

The Queenslander was quizzed on if he feels pressured to replicate those performances for the Amazon Warriors.

“I don’t really feel any pressure to do well. I’ve always said whatever will be, will be! I give myself the best advantage at training to do well. So I will have a crack and see what happens,” he responded.

The right-hander, will be knowledgeable of the electric atmosphere at the “Biggest Party in Sport”, having played for the Jamaica Tallawahs last year where he was able to produce his top score of 52 in the tournament. His numbers are quite decent, having a strike rate of 125 from ten CPL matches while scoring 167 runs.

This year, the player explains that he has much more to offer since it is time he makes a bigger impact.

He stated “Chris Lynn will offer plenty of fun internally within the squad but also a sense of leadership to really stand up. I’ve had the experience of playing in the CPL already so it’s now time to really press the button.”

The Warriors play four home matches in what are expected to be spin-friendly conditions and player believes winning those matches are of great importance since it allows for the broadening the fan base.

“Winning home games is massive not only for us as players but for our fans. Good teams do well but great teams do well and also have a great following and the best way to do that is win the fans over.”

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

9

Tanvir loving atmosphere of “Biggest Party in Sport” are secure where money is conakistani all-rounder cerned, salary caps Sohail Tanvir who had are concerned, bestints with the St. Lucia cause as a profesZouks and the St. Kitts and sional when you go Nevis Patriots in the past, is play some leagues enjoying the unique and fesyou want to be setival the Hero Caribbean cured you will get Premier League (CPL) brings paid on time,” the to the sport.

31 year-old said.

“I always say crowd in He added, “If Caribbean and crowd in rest you talk about of the world is totally opposite cricket quality, the side, they come here and take it quality is good; of as a party, they enjoy the crickcourse you cannot et even after they enjoy themcompare it with selves, the music, drinks, it is a In just two matches in to the tournament, the IPL, because lovely atmosphere, I think ev- Tanvir has been one of the standout bowlers the IPL [Indian ery professional would want to for the Warriors. (CPL T20 Ltd.2016) Premier League] play CPL,” the player said. is a bigger market The festival atmosphere is not the only but as far as other things are concerned, it is reason Tanvir is of the view that cricketers beautiful.” would want to play in the “Biggest Party in With the experience of 214 Twenty20 Sport”, since the globetrotting T20 cricketer matches under his belt, Tanvir is the Warriors alluded to the fact that the management of the marquee player coming out of the draft in tournament is commendable.

February, raking in US$160,000. He believes I think CPL is growing very nicely, of it gives him confidence rather than pressure course when you start you learn as a manage- to perform. ment, I didn’t play the first one, I played in “Honestly it depends how you take it, per2014 and 2015; the best thing is, the players sonally I feel it will give me confidence, I started with the low price and last year I performed well and got a higher price, knowing it’s because of my performance, it will definitely give me confidence, I won’t feel any pressure; yes expectation is high

By Akeem Greene

P

when you buy a player at a high salary cap, so I will try my best to fulfil those expectations,” the former purple cap winner at the first edition of the IPL explained.

The all-rounder has played 19 matches in the Caribbean Premier League, picking up 14 wickets at an economy rate of six runs per over. However, his most memorable performance would be his 19-ball 50 playing for the St. Lucia Zouks against Barbados Tridents in 2014 which allows him to have a career strike rate of 154.6.

Considering all of this exploits in the past, the player was quizzed if he can replicate those performances in the Warriors’ title quest.

“You cannot guarantee results, Tanvir along with his wife and son arriving at the Cheddi what you guarantee is your effort, Jagan International Airport (CJIA). (Marceano Narine Photo) your commitment towards the it, with the older ball I try to use my cutters team, I believe as a professional it is your duty which I think are ideal for these conditions to give 100% for your team and sometimes and that’s why I think I have gotten success you get good results and sometimes you don’t in the last two seasons of CPL” the marquee but as an individual you must be satisfied that player explained. you put it all out”, Tanvir responded.

The Warriors play four home matches and He further stated, “I will definitely try to the cricketer believes the management got the lead the attack and be the best bowler of the correct combination for the matches. tournament!”.

He said, “Overall as a bowling unit, we got three to four spinners, I think the coachHome advantage “I played here before against the Amazon ing staff and management knew about our Warriors and far as the pitch is concerned, it fixtures and that we would play four home is a bit on the slower side... I think it suits me games and they selected the team accordinga lot because I’m a bowler who has different ly, every area is covered so it’s about applying variations; with the newer ball I try to swing yourself now.”

10

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

CPL Super Fan: Krystal Lee Lee lives for the thrill of the “Biggest Party in Sport”

By Akeem Greene

T

he Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has known to attract many cricketing lovers from all around the world but Guyanese Krystal Lee seems to have a passion for the game that may surpass all.

Lee love for the tournament grows from the unique and festival atmosphere and getting to see her favourite players in action.

“I love CPL because of the unique carnival-like atmosphere during the matches. I get to see our local players rise to the challenge of the competition on the field. I love to see how this tournament brings about unity among fans. Cricket offers great regional integration and along with being able to witness quality cricket, CPL is truly an anticipated tournament for any cricket fan” the 18 year-old revealed.

She added,” I’m a cricket lover because it’s the first game I learnt to play when I was small. It all started in the streets you know, what we call street-cricket, and ever since I’ve been following the game”.

The festive tournament usually attracts the top cricketers from across the globe but Lee’s favourite cricketer in the tournament is the New Zealander and Amazon Warriors Captain Martin Guptill.

The former Queen’s College Student thinks he’s a great batsman. I enjoy watching him bat and I’m looking forward to seeing him lead our troops this year”.

The drama in matches are endless but the best match for the young fan occurred in 2014.

“My greatest memory at

CPL was during a nail biting game in 2014 at the Guyana National Stadium between Red Steel and Warriors. The game came down to a super over and Warriors had to defend 11 runs.

Everyone was tense.

The hero, [Sunil] Narine had bowled a maiden super over to steer us to victory.

I jumped, screamed, and danced when we won”, the super fan disclosed with the same amount of enthusiasm.

Some fans believe that the Warriors lack the star-stud-

ded names of the modern sport but Lee, who has been following the Warriors progress for the last three seasons is positive they can go the distance.

She said, “On paper, we may not have the strongest team but I believe the Warriors can go a very far way in this tournament providing that they work as a team, adapt and analyze to game situations.

It’s time we lift the trophy!”

This year the gala tournament will touch the shores of the United States when six matches bowl-off in Florida and the cricket enthusiast posits it is a good venture.

“It’s weird to think of CPL being held in Florida since this is a Caribbean tournament but taking it to Florida allows the Diaspora to witness this amazing tournament live.

It will great exposure and will be good economic wise.” Lee explained.

When quizzed on what more the organizers can do to expand their fan base, the aspiring Paediatrician said “They [the organisers] can provide the fans with a better chance to interact with the players especially the youth who may have an interest in the sport as a player or a part of the management team, put a programme in place for them where they get to interact with the players, learn some skills and some coaching”.

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

11

12

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

BY JOHN RAMSINGH

R

andy Persaud who is a local Drag Racer and auto dealer said he was mandated to purchase tickets early for the ‘perfect’ seats in the green stand where 15 members of his family can sit together and cheer on the Warriors. Most of the 15 Persaud mentioned, are from Orlando Florida who asked him to also secure the original replica clothing before it’s all gone. His family who are ardent cricket fans will also be joining the biggest party in sport when the action bowls off in Florida on July 28 and they intend to wear the clothing

Randy Persaud

Hack also wasted no time in sharing photographs with his family’s experience of previous CPL matches in Trinidad and Tobago.

H a c k stressed that his family are somewhat disappointed that the Barbados Tridents with AB De Villiers will, not be playing at Providence but admitted The Hack extended family supporting the Guyana Amazon Warriors at the Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago in 2015 that he is looking forward to there to show their support once again. ally of a high standard. the Warriors Graham Alli, club captain of the The Hack family is also growopening home Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) was high ing with CPL and 2016 they are game against in praises for the new ticketing office and going to higher heights. Zahid the Jamaica merchandise shop and stated that his club Hack said his parents sent the Tallawahs. has a special relationship with CPL that he children to pick up tickets earLike many intends to maintain. Alli, said that every ly since the relatives from overfans globally, year the club buys tickets for its members so seas are planning their vaca- Graham Alli the young Hack that they can view the matches as the “GCC tion around the entire CPL, in stated that Family” all sitting together. and out of Guyana. Hack said his cousins “In my opinion CPL is as big as the Indian Alli stressed that this year he expects the who are living in the USA who will be on Premier league since many West Indian Warriors to take the crown mainly due to the school vacation are super excited to go back players play in both competitions and withexperience of Captain Martin Guptil and the to CPL since they intend to watch matches out them (West Indians) the IPL will be impressive young Australian leg-spinner, in Guyana, Florida and the finals. flat.” He added that from what he sees on Adam Zampa. The GCC Executive went on On match days, there will be approxiTV in the IPL and his personal experiences to say that the CPL experience is second to mately 20 members of the Hack family repof CPL, the people in the Caribbean know none with knowledgeable fans who create a ping for the Guyana Amazon Warriors at how to have fun and consciously or unconfantastic atmosphere beyond the boundary Providence and at the Central Broward sciously create an electric atmosphere that while on the field of play the cricket is usu- County Recreation Ground in Lauderhill. is second to none.

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

13

Shimron Hetmyer; A name to remember!

“Some people will say is not the best team on paper, it is not what is on paper that counts but is how you perform on the day and I think we have very good and capable players”, Hetmyer posited.

Hetmyer will pocket US$3,000 at the base price set by the draft that occurred in February and by all accounts from his exploits on the cricket field is a valuable addition to the squad.

Unlike previous years when Under-19 players were a part of the squad for solely training and mentoring purposes, this year the players are in a position to make the final eleven.

At early age Hetmyer has shown the ability to compete with players above his age and CPL4 is the perfect opportunity for the cricketer to become a household name.

By Akeem Greene

S

h i m r o n Hetmyer who would have gripped the attention of the world by leading the West Indies to their first ever Under-19 World Cup title and will now have an opportunity to showcase his flamboyant batting when he suits up Shimron Hetmyer for Guyana Amazon Warriors in this year’s Hero Caribbean Premier League.

The left-handed batsman who hails from the county of Berbice was most ecstatic over his selection to the squad, since it is a dream come through for any young cricketer to play in front of his country.

“It is a tremendous feeling, words can’t really explain how good I feel, not just playing but playing at home, the pitches, the crowd, the outfield that you know from since you were a child and growing up and getting a chance to play on it” were the words of the elated Hetmyer.

Despite being just 19-years old, the player has shown immense ability to cope with pressure in tough circumstances and could be a great foil batting alongside the likes Martin Guptill at the top of the order if selected in the final team.

Hetymer, who has played six First-class matches for Guyana to date, was quizzed on how he feels he will he approach playing in a tournament of this magnitude and if he ready for the pressure that will correspond with playing at this level.

“Yeah I think I’m ready for it. I was well prepared from the three years back and just being around the guys and being around the environment and knowing what to do from the guidance of the guys and even in the under 19 world cup, those were pressure situations as well and I think I do well in those areas and I am hoping this year I do get a chance to show my stuff” the player confidently said.

The West Indies Under-19 captain further asserted that the experience in playing at the World Cup in Bangladesh has aided in the positive transformation of his game.

Obviously it helped me a lot to better my game in the areas I was lacking like batting and fielding; some of the shots you could even transfer to the four-day and 50-over [format], the fine sweeps, the dabs, the ones, to keep the scoreboard ticking, the cricketer explained.

He added. “ Even being around the senior guys from the other islands and international countries and to better think of what I’m doing and want to do”, The young cricketer also confidently stated that the current squad is one capable of performing well; despite it may not be most popular by the fans because of a lack of big stars.

14

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

A

t the end of the Benson & Hedges cup in England, Cricket authourities wanted to recapture the youth and excitement of cricket which lead to the introduction on a 20 over per innings affair. The first match was played on june 13, 2003. While the game may be similar to its longer formats, a lot of its rules and regulations are much different.

Innings:

Each side has an alotted 20 overs per innings of which the batting side looks to maximise on while the feilding team seeks to restrict the flow of runs. as one may conclude the game is of a fast paced nature. Even the batsmen do not come from the dressing room, but ready and rearing from a ‘dug out’ just off the boundry ropes. A front seat view of the action as it unfolds!

Bowling:

Each team has a maximum of 20 overs, each having six legal deliveries.

Each bowler is only allowed to bowl a maximum of 4 overs, similar to one-fifth of the total overs. one run awarded to the batsman when a bowler oversteps the bowling crease and a “free hit” is given to the batsman on the next delivery. During the free hit delivery the only way a batsman can be given out is by a ‘run-out’.

In each Twenty20 cricket match, one short-pitched ball is allowed per over.

Feilding:

No more than 5 leg side feilders can be play during the game.

During the powerplay (first 6 overs) a maximum of two feilders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle.

After the powerplay. Only five players are allowed outside the 30-yard circle.

If the bowling side does not begin to bowl the 20th over within 75 minutes of start, the batting side is credited six fruns for every over after the 75th minute of the innings!

Intervals:

In a normal T20 game, the interval lasts for 15 minutes. However, in a reduced-overs match, it can be cut to 10 minutes.

The game must go on!

If, and only if, each of the two teams has faced (or had the opportunity to face) five overs, will be a match deemed to have played.

Net Run Rate:

To calculate a team’s net run rate, the average runs per over scored by that team is deducted from the average runs per over scored against it.

Tie-Breakers!

There are no such thing as ties in T20 Cricket! There must be a winner. The winner is decided in a one over per side ‘superover’.

Each team nominates three batsmen and one bowler.

The team that batted second in the regular 20 over innings bats first in the super over. The innings is over if two wickets fall. The team that scores the higher wins. In the event that there is a tie in the superover, the team that struck the most boundries would be decleared the winner.

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

15

CPL: Bringing families together 16 Amazon Warriors cops top prize at Jubilee float parade July 2016

T

he Guyana Amazon Warriors were among those awarded for their extraordinary performance at the float parade to mark Guyana’s 50th independence anniversary.

In a night of high achievements, the Guyana Amazon Warriors topped their group in the category of large SemiCostume designed by Jermaine Broomes.

With rags, flags and heavy rhythm, those on the Amazon Warriors truck gained loud cheers and support from the gyrating revelers, as the truck drove along the parade route.

All warriors were called out amid pomp and fanfare as two-time finalists of the Caribbean Premiere League (CPL)

T20 Cricket, the Guyana Amazon Warriors team participated in the country’s Independence Day parade in observance of the 50th Jubilee celebrations.

The gargantuan crowd grew wild with excitement on seeing their favourite players parading on the road, joining them in the grand festivities, just ahead of the much anticipated CPL tournament.

With two fully loaded trucks on the road, hundreds of thrilled fans and supporters flaunted their Amazon Warriors branded jerseys, flags, hats and other merchandises as they gyrated to the beat of the popular theme song: Calling All Warriors!

True cricket fanatics made use of the opportunity to greet and rub shoulders with their heroes, soliciting autographs and snapping selfies, reminiscent of the distinctive razzmatazz known to this cricket-loving region fifty autograph cricket balls were given to excited fans along the parade route.

The team will come out under new Captain, New

Zealand’s destructive top order batsman Martin Guptil, who has been with the Amazon Warriors since the inaugural tournament in 2013.

The team will include regional powerhouses: Dwayne Smith, Orlando Peters, Stephen Katwaroo, Muhammad Ahsan Ali Khan, Jason Mohammed, and Rayad Emrit.

The team will be boosted by international players with the likes of Pakistani fast bowler Sohail Tanvir; Australian duo, Chris Lynn, the explosive all-rounder and spinning phenomenon Adam Zampa; both of whom had exceptional runs in this year’s Indian Premiere League (IPL).

The core of the squad comprises local superstars including Captain of the West Indies Under-19 Worldcup Champions Shimron Hetmyer; spin twins Veerasammy Permaul and Devendra Bishoo; all-rounders Christopher Barnwell and Stephen Jacobs; fast bowler Paul Wintz as well as specialist top order batsman Assad Fudadin and wicket keeper Anthony Bramble.

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

17

18

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

19

CPL LAUNCHES OFFICIAL TOURNAMENT APP TO ENGAGE GROWING GLOBAL AUDIENCE

T

he Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) are delighted to launch its official App in time for the start of the fourth instalment of the biggest party in sport, which will take place between 29 June – 7 August across the Caribbean and Florida.

The CPL App, which is available to download now across all IOS and Android devices, includes a host of new and exciting features to keep the millions of fans across the world engaged and informed.

The CPL App will include all of the latest news and information from across all of the competing teams – Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Jamaica Tallawahs, St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots, St. Lucia Zouks and Trinbago Knight Riders.

As the excitement builds, fans will have the opportunity to access exclusive Video footage and Highlights, as well as Fixtures, Results, a live Match Centre, Tickets, Tournament statistics, Player and Team profiles as well as social Hub updates across Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

CPL COO Pete Russell commented: “We are delighted to launch the Official CPL App which will keep fans engaged and informed in the build-up to, and during, the CPL this summer. I know that fans of CPL across the Caribbean and beyond will enjoy the various fixtures, while fans will also be able to purchase tickets across the seven territories, which of course includes the Central Broward Stadium in Lauderhill for the first time. So whether you’re at the matches, or watching from work, home or on the move, there’s no reason not to keep up with all the latest goings on in the CPL.”

Last minute ticket rush is on!

The crowds braving the weather to buy CPL Tickets

S

cores of Cricket Lovers flocked the local ticket locations in an effort to get their hands on tickets for the four games at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence.

People from all walks of life braved the weather to grab their ticket to join the fun in the biggest party in sport where they waited in the line for as much as one hour.

After purchasing tickets, the cricket crazy fans took the opportunity to shop in the Guyana Amazon Warriors Merchandise store which is located in the central ticket location at lot 238 Camp and Quamina Streets, Georgetown.

With a capacity of 15,000 the early prediction pits Guyana as having the largest turnout of spectators and the loudest party of the tournament.

20

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

21

22

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together

Dress up and win ‘Hero Fan of the Match’

Guyana Amazon Warriors patriotic fan

H

ero Caribbean Premier League (CPL), in association with tournament Title Partners Hero MotoCorp Ltd (HMCL), the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has launched an exciting initiative at this year’s CPL whereby fans who make the most imaginative effort to dress up to bring to life the “Biggest Party in Sport” can win a cash prize of USD $500 at every Match.

The most colourful winner will be selected by the CPL commentary team at each game and the competition is open to fans of all ages.

CPL Commercial Director Jamie Stewart said: “We always celebrate the Man of the Match but the ‘Hero Fan of the Match’ competition brings back the focus to our fans which is ultimately what the CPL is all about. Have fun, dress up, make some noise and you could walk away with USD $500 in cash, courtesy of Hero Motocorp, the motorcycle leader.”

The Hero CPL 2016 will be played between 29 June – 7 August at venues across seven territories - Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia and Trinidad & Tobago, and Lauderhill, Florida in the USA. Last year’s tournament attracted a global audience in excess of 90 million and this year is set to be even higher as fans across the world continue to be drawn to the high quality action on the pitch and the unique party atmosphere off it.

ABOUT HERO MOTOCORP:

For the past 15 consecutive years, Hero MotoCorp has remained the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer in terms of unit volumes sold by a single company in a calendar year. The company achieved a significant milestone recently with the inauguration of its world-class Hero ‘Centre of Innovation and Technology’ (CIT) in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan. In financial year 2015-16, Hero sold over 6.63 million two-wheelers. The company currently sells its products in 30 countries across the world.

Hero MotoCorp has been associated with various disciplines of sports including cricket, golf, field hockey and soccer for over two decades now. Hero MotoCorp has also had a long association with cricket in various capacities. The company was earlier one of the Global Partners of the International Cricket Council (ICC). The company was also the team sponsor of ‘Delhi Daredevils’ and later of ‘Mumbai Indians’ in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Fourteentime major winner Tiger Woods is Hero’s Global Corporate Partner.

Hero is also a partner of the Tiger Woods Foundation and hosts the marquee Hero World Challenge golf tournament at Albany in the Bahamas, with participation from 18 top golfers in a Trinidadian fan the world. (CPLT20)

CPL: Bringing families together

July 2016

23

DIGICEL BATS FOR FOUR MORE YEARS WITH THE CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE Company plans to ‘Bring the Beat’ to the biggest party in sport A

s excitement heightens around the muchanticipated Caribbean Premier League, founding partner, Digicel, announced that it has re-signed a multi-year contract as official telecommunications sponsor of the League. The deal comes on the heels of Digicel’s new four-year agreement with the WICB and therefore represents a significant investment in and commitment to cricket in the region.

Through this partnership, Digicel will keep cricket fans at the edge of the excitement of the 34-game tournament with a host of engaging and interactive activities, including ticket giveaways through social media competitions and half-time shows.

Digicel also promises to ‘Bring the Beat’ to the CPL party stands across its markets with performances by some of the region’s most popular artistes - including Trinidad’s soca monarch, Machel Montano. Headlined by Machel, along with Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Usain Bolt, Digicel recently launched its Bring the Beat campaign which uses music and the celebration of extraordinary sporting talents to connect the world to the Caribbean and its culture – making it a fitting element in the biggest party in sport.

Group Director of Marketing for Digicel, Peter Lloyd, said; “It’s gearing up to be an exciting and action-packed CPL season and we’re looking forward to leveraging all our platforms to get fans to the games as well as to deliver live match updates to cricket fans and all customers - whether through mobile apps or through social media.”

Damien O’Donohoe, Chief Executive Officer World’s fastest man, Jamaican Usain Bolt with an inquisitive bunch of kids from across the Caribbean at the launch of of the CPL, said; “We are thrilled to have Digicel Bring the Beat Campaign in Jamaica on board again for the next four years. Its partDigicel also runs a host of community-based initianership has helped the tournament to go from strength to About Digicel Group tives across its markets and has set up Digicel Foundations strength over the years and can only get better. The CPL is Digicel Group is a total communications and enterin Haiti, Jamaica, Papua New Guinea and Trinidad and now one of the top three T20 tournaments in the world and tainment provider with operations in 32 markets in the Tobago which focus on educational, cultural and social desomething that the people of the Caribbean should be very Caribbean, Central America and Asia Pacific.

After 15 years velopment programmes. proud of. We have attracted some of the biggest names in world cricket and are set for another memorable campaign of operation, total investment to date stands at over US$5 billion worldwide. The compafor the biggest party in sport.

“CPL has big ambitions to grow the tournament even ny is renowned for delivering further and having sponsors such as Digicel on board will best value, best service and help us extend our brand both locally across the Caribbean best network.

Digicel is the lead sponand North America, and beyond. sor of Caribbean, Central “Without Digicel, CPL would not be possible and we are American and Pacific sports indebted to its support. Digicel has demonstrated its comteams, including the Special mitment to West Indies cricket for many years and has Olympics teams throughout played a big part in the success of the men’s, women’s and these regions.

Digicel sponUnder-19 teams in recent months. On the eve of the fourth sors the West Indies cricket instalment of CPL, it is an enormous boost to extend our partnership and we look forward to continuing our strong team and is also the presenting partner of the Caribbean work together over the coming years.”

Digicel also commits to continue to nurture and grow Premier League. In the Pacific, cricket in the region by developing grassroots and high Digicel is the proud sponsor school programmes to and create a platform for young crick- of grassroots NRL programs, eters to always put their best foot forward. As such, other women’s business initiatives activities on Digicel’s CPL agenda include school visits as and the Amicale soccer team in Vanuatu. well as hosting kids at each game across the region.

July 2016

CPL: Bringing families together