T&T cricketers off to Champions League

THE Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) hosted a farewell function for the national team on Friday night at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Port-of-Spain.

Attending the function were President of Trinidad and Tobago, Professor George Maxwell Richards and wife Dr Jean Ramjohn Richards; president of the TTCB, Deryck Murray; Chief Executive Officer, Forbes Persaud; second vice-president Leo Doodnath; Executive Director of the Sport Company of Trinidad and Tobago (Sportt), Darion William; Australian High Commissioner, Phillip Kentwell; members of the British diplomatic corp and the national team.

The team which was scheduled to leave for India yesterday evening to compete in the Champions League Twenty20 tournament was greeted by President Richards.

Giving the opening address, second vice-president Doodnath stated that the national team has created history by becoming the first national team to compete at the Airtel Champions League Twenty20 tournament. He also expressed confidence about their chances.

“The maximum number of games any team can play is six and we will be playing all six,” said Doodnath. He paid tribute to captain Daren Ganga and his team while wishing them the best of luck at the tournament.

Executive Director of Sportt, Williams acknowledged the pride and joy the national team has brought to the country through their success at the regional level and at the Stanford Super Series.

He explained that the Ministry of Sport is hoping that the success of the team in India will inspire a new generation to achieve.

“I know that you guys will not be around playing cricket forever and we hope that your success can spur on a new generation of cricketers. We hope that your mentorship is passed on and that you represent Trinidad and Tobago with pride and glory,” said Williams.

Manager of the national team, Colin Borde explained that the team was ready for the tournament after months of preparation.

“This a disciplined group of players and they govern themselves. It shows what a fantastic job my predecessor Omar Khan did with the team and transforming them into a well oiled unit,” said Borde.

Kern Ramlochan
T&T Newsday