Guyana: Prez Irfaan Ali watches final of Commander-in-Chief Inter-Service T20 cricket competition

Guyana: President of the Republic of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali, witnessed the exciting final at the Police Sports Club Ground at Eve Leary on Friday. The match was of the Commander-in-Chief Inter-Service T20 cricket competition.

It took a super over to decide the winners as the Guyana Police Force (GPF) held their nerves to win the championship clash against the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

GDF batted first and made 134 for the loss of eight wickets. In reply, GPF managed a similar inning, which carried the game into a super over.

GPF batted first and scored seven runs from their six balls, while they were able to restrict GDF to three runs after two of their batsmen lost their wickets via the run-out route.

PM Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; Chief of Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Godfrey Bess and Police Commissioner (Ag) Clifton Hicken and the Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn; were present at the stadium to enjoy the game.

President Ali has been known for promoting the sector of the country. Earlier, Dr Irfaan Ali charged the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport to work with all sports associations and federations to ensure that standards are set for all teams travelling to international competitions.

The President said that it is imperative to have physiotherapists, medical personnel and others assigned to the athletes for support.

He made this statement late this afternoon via a live address on Facebook, where he emphasised that the Government would ensure that at least a minimum standard is adhered to.

He spoke of the importance of sport, which he said evokes a feeling of “national pride and joy”.
President Ali also said that there would be improvements to the governance structure and that there would be “greater involvement and participation” from the level of the ministry.

“To all the athletes… I really want you to know that you have our full support.” The Head of State also reassured that the Government will continue investing in sports and will do its part to enhance the lives of the athletes.