The 592 Dugout

Holder’s career-best 6-42 helps West Indies skittle England for 204

West Indies skipper Jason Holder led from the front with the ball as his seventh five-wicket haul and career best figures of 6-42, along with Shannon Gabriel’s 4-62 restricted England for 204 in their first innings. At the close of play West Indies were on 57-1 in reply.

When play resumed, opener Rory Burns (20 overnight) and Joe Denly (14) found the going tough as Gabriel bowled with plenty of pace and menace.

Gabriel didn’t take long to get going and produced a superb delivery, one that swung back through Denly’s defense to bowl him for 18. In his very next over, the burly fast bowler accounted for Burns, trapping him in front of leg stump to leave England on 51-3.

Joe Denly is bowled by Shannon Gabriel (CWI Photos)

From thereon, Holder took over and had Zak Crawley LBW for an enterprising 10, he didn’t have to wait long for a second, as he had Ollie Pope edging behind for 12 with England looking wobbly at 87-5.

However stand-in England captain Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler brought a brief respite with a 67-run partnership.

Eventual top-scorer Stokes fell seven runs short of his half-century as Holder had him dismissed edging to wicket-keeper Shane Dowrich. The West Indies captain then made it two wickets in two overs as he sent Buttler back to the pavilion in similar fashion.

With England looking in danger of being bowled out for under 200 runs, Dom Bess hit a counter-attacking 31 not out but ran out of partners as Jofra Archer and Mark Wood both fell to the rampant Holder.

James Anderson provided some support to Bess, and the pair combined for a vital 30-run stand for the last wicket before Gabriel bowled Anderson with a full, straight ball as England were bowled out for 204 to signal an early tea.

The West Indies opening duo of Kraigg Brathwaite and John Campbell effected a steady start to the visitors’ reply after tea.

Campbell survived a couple of early scares, twice reviewing successfully before being given out leg-before to Anderson.

Mark Wood delivered a fierce spell of fast bowling to Brathwaite and new batsman Shai Hope, but they both were solid in defence and saw West Indies safely to the close of play, bad light for the second day in a row causing a premature end to the day’s play. West Indies will resume tomorrow on 57/1.

England 35-1 vs West Indies after rain & bad light mars the return of International Cricket

The first day of the first test between England and the West Indies was cut short by rain and bad light as international cricket made it’s return at the Ageas Bowl in Hampshire. England. When the umpires decided to call it a day after just 17.4 overs of play, England were on 35-1 after losing the early wicket of Dom Sibley.

After rain made the two sides wait for three hours to get started, the West Indians and Englishmen stood in a semi-circle around the pitch to observe a minute’s silence for those who perished in the Covid-19 pandemic and in honour of West Indies Legend Sir Everton Weekes, who died on July 1.

Following the minute’s silence, the players accompanied by umpires Richard Kettleborough and Richard Illingworth took up their respective field positions and all dropped to one knee, with the West Indies players raising a black gloved hand. The England opening pair, Rory Burns and Dom Sibley, knelt at the crease with the rest of the England players and support staff kneeling at the boundary in resounding solidarity for the Black Lives Matter movement.

The day’s play was reduced to three short periods of play possible. England had won the toss and stand-in captain Ben Stokes elected to bat with Rory Burns and Joe Denly leading a recovery of sorts after the loss of Sibley after a mere 10 balls into the innings.

Dom Sibley is bowled by Shannon Gabriel (Cricket West Indies photo)

West Indies pace Roach opened the bowling and immediately found movement off the seam, while in his first over back in action, Shannon Gabriel swung one off the seam which Sibley left alone, only to have his off stump rattled.

Gabriel consistently hit 90mph/145kph during his five-over spell and almost had Denly caught behind in his fifth over, through an edge which flew through the gap at fourth-slip.

Having weathered Roach and Gabriel, the pair of Burns and Denly found the going slightly easier against Alzarri Joseph before bad light brought the game to a halt at tea.

A further bout of drizzle and dark clouds kept the teams off the field until umpires Kettleborough and Illingworth called it a day.

When play resumes tomorrow, opener Burns will be on 20 (55 deliveries, 4×3) while Denly is on 14 (48 deliveries, 4×3). Bowling for the West Indies, Roach was the most economical with figures of 0-2 from six overs (4 maidens) while Gabriel picked up the only wicket (1-19 from 5 overs). Jason Holder got in three overs with one maiden and conceded three runs while Alzarri Joseph’s fourth over was interrupted and ended the day with figures of 0-11 (3.4 overs, 1 maiden).

First ball tomorrow is set for 11:00hrs (6:00hrs Guyana Time).

Guyana Olympic Association to host ‘Virtual Fitness’ event as part of Olympic Day activities

In the continuation of their Olympic Day 2020 activities, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) will be hosting a ‘Virtual Fitness’ event, the first of its kind on Thursday (July 9) at 6:30pm.

Although Olympic Day was on June 23, the GOA has a number of virtual activities planned; however this event which has never been tried before in the sports fraternity takes precedence and all athletes and sports associations are invited.

Dr. Karen Pilgrim who is the Caribbean Director of the Regional Anti-Doping Organisation (RADO) and Vice President of the GOA told The 592 Dugout; “Although we have had several virtual meetings, this will be our first attempt at a public event so we’re hoping it works”.

She explained; “The intention is to have a half-hour of Jazzercise; If you’re not familiar with that, It’s basically a fun aerobic and strength training programme. This will be followed by about 15 minutes of strength training and no equipment is needed for either section”.

Quizzed about the move behind the event, Dr Pilgrim revealed that the GOA Executive discussed several ideas and agreed on a few events which will be carried out by the Olympic body.

Jazzercise is a dance fitness franchise company founded by Judi Sheppard Missett in 1969 and headquartered in Carlsbad, California, United States. The company currently has over 8,300 franchisees worldwide in 32 countries.

It combines dance-based cardio with strength training and stretching to sculpt, tone and lengthen muscles for maximum fat burn. Choreographed to today’s hottest music, Jazzercise is a fusion of jazz dance, resistance training, pilates, yoga, and kickboxing.

The ‘Virtual Fitness’ event which starts at 6:30pm via Zoom will be facilitated by trainers from ‘Guyana Jazzercise’ and ‘Spartan Fitness’.

The Login information is as follows:

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5082882516…

Meeting ID: 508 288 2516

Password: 1GPxZh

Persons are encouraged to sign in at 6:15pm and all are invited.

Ross Taylor to bolster Guyana Amazon Warriors in CPL 2020

Following the completion of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 Player Draft, all franchise squads have been completed with a number of overseas and Caribbean signings boosting each side.

Perennial bridesmaids, the Guyana Amazon Warriors have stuck with 13 players from last year’s squad which went undefeated during the round robin stage. However, they have added massive firepower to an already rampant batting line-up in the form of New Zealander Ross Taylor who is known for his swashbuckling approach to batting. Afghanistan’s 20-year-old right arm medium-fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq has also been added to the Warriors roster while Imran Tahir, Chris Green, Brandon King, Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul and Sherfane Rutherford have all been retained. Youngsters Ashmead Nedd and Kevin Sinclair have also made the cut.

Over in the Trinbago Knight Riders franchise, India’s Pravin Tambe is set to play in the CPL after being signed, a first for any Indian player. They have also retained Australian leg-spinner Fawad Ahmed and have signed New Zealand wicketkeeper Tim Seifert and Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza.

Defending champions, the Barbados Tridents, will have a dangerous spin duo after the acquisition of Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan who will partner with Hayden Walsh Jr. Meanwhile Englishman Alex Hales and Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis will also be part of the team. The other overseas signings are England’s Harry Gurney and Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz.

The St Kitts & Nevis Patriots have signed Australian duo Chris Lynn and Ben Dunk along with Ish Sodhi and Sohail Tanvir.

South African Rassie van der Dussen returns to the Patriots after a fruitful 2018 while Fabian Allen, Evin Lewis, Sheldon Cottrell and captain Rayad Emrit all make returns.

After a horrorshow in 2019, the Jamaica Tallawahs have called up Carlos Brathwaite who was released by the Patriots. Nepalese leg spinner Sandeep Lamichhane and South African left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi will also don the Tallawahs kit this year. Pakistani all-rounder Asif Ali also joins the line-up and leading run-scorer from last season, Glenn Phillips will suit up once again.

Andre Russell, Rovman Powell, and Oshane Thomas are among the locals who have been retained.

Minister Norton extends condolences on passing of Sir Everton Weekes

The Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton has extended his sincerest condolences to the relatives, friends, fans and former colleagues of Legendary West Indies Batsman, Sir Everton Weekes.

The 95-year-old Barbados national recently succumbed in his homeland, following a prolonged illness.

Weekes was a well celebrated batsman, coach, commentator and bridge player. He has scored 4,455 runs at an average of 58.61 in 48 Tests and is the only man to make centuries in five consecutive Test innings.

Weekes was known as one of the ‘Three Ws’ alongside fellow West Indies stalwarts – Sir Clyde Walcott and Sir Frank Worrell. He was the third oldest surviving men’s Test cricketer, after South African John Watkins and England’s Don Smith, both of whom are 97.

In a missive to the media, the Minister stated; “It is hoped that the family, friends and well-wishers will take comfort in the fact that Sir Everton Weekes not only led a long, full life, but he died a legend”.

“We hope that his dedication to the game and his greatness, can be emulated in the future”.

“May he find eternal rest”.

Titans Table Tennis Club planning for Life after Covid-19

Dick urges National Federations to unite & improve policies

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the world throughout without discretion and has brought sports to a standstill. While in certain parts of the world professional football and motorsports have resumed behind closed doors and under specific conditions, it is unclear when it would be safe for sports in Guyana to make a return.

However, despite this uncertainty, Guyana’s leading table tennis institution, the Titans Table Tennis Club is remaining proactive in its plans for the future. Known for their almost factory-like production of top junior athletes, The Titans family has been putting their time during lockdown to good use.

In an exclusive interview, Titans’ President and Head Coach Dwain Dick, told The 592 Dugout that the younger athletes have been given a much needed break.

Dick opined; “I think the uncertainty of our return to normalcy is the biggest concern. Sports have been a big part of our lives as coaches, players, and even parents, thus, the pandemic has forced us to alter our schedules and our lives to some extent. It’s challenging, but we are all trying to cope, by focusing and prioritizing our areas that were somewhat a bit neglected because of table tennis. The younger athletes now have more time to rest and place emphasis on academics”.

Titans Head Coach Dwain Dick addressing his charges before a training session.

Despite there not being any guidance from the relevant sports authorities, the Titans administration has been busy looking ahead to when it is finally safe to resume operations.

To this end, Dick revealed; “We are presently drafting a set of safety protocols for the return of our senior (adult) and elite junior players as a trial. This would include temperature tests, wearing of masks, playing areas limited to only coaches and specific number of players, handling of equipment and a few other things that would have to be adhered to”.

Looking at the impact of the lockdown and it’s ripple effects, both negative and positive, the outspoken Titans President explained; “Our full time coaches were forced more or less to take up part time employment outside of sports so we are all trying to adjust. It is taking a financial toll on us as we still would have had some overheads but we are trying to cushion those expenses through our academic arm, the TTTC Virtual Learning Academy”.

He further revealed; “It’s an online platform where we offer students, student/athletes, and adults tutoring in subjects that propel them towards careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)”.

He continued; “Since the inception of Titans I was offering CSEC Mathematics to club members with phenomenal success. It is just that this period has given us the opportunity to think and plan ahead a bit more seriously or in other terms, has forced us to consider opportunities in the present”.

Quizzed about plans for when the club can finally resume their operations, Dick revealed; “There are no immediate plans for tournaments but we are in the process of drafting our elite junior program, which hopefully we will be able to implement. It’s a junior program that will see us moving away from the recreational aspect into the professional (elite) realm”.

Dick who was a former national player appealed to everyone to be; “more responsible and cautious. As we put ourselves at risk, we also put others at risk too”.

In closing he encouraged the various national federations to; “Collaborate whether it’s virtually and use this period to strengthen and improve their policies etc, so that when sports resumes we can see them operating at the highest standards. They can use this time to communicate their vision and become more efficient and effective, as well as see ways how to improve athletes performances and how best to support athletes”.

“To the parents, emotional support provides the biggest benefits to young athletes, so continue to be that support. To my fellow coaches, adapt, and find ways to stay relevant. This time will pass”.

Dick further urged; “To the players, stay positive, there will be more chances and opportunities in the future. To become a great athlete it requires tremendous amounts of dedication, discipline, desire and effort. Stand up and face the present challenges. Stay positive, remember it’s not about a one time trip, it’s about self development, being the best that you can be”.

Gabriel named in West Indies Test squad to face England

The highly rated fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has been listed in the 15-man West Indies Test squad for the ongoing Sandals Tour of England 2020. This was revealed by Cricket West Indies in a press release on Thursday afternoon.

Gabriel who was among the reserves proved his fitness in the two inter-squad warm-up matches with impressive performances. The robust fast bowler was in a race for fitness following ankle surgery earlier this year.

Commenting on Gabriel’s inclusion, CWI Head Selector Roger Harper noted; “I am delighted that we are able to add Shannon to the Test squad. He has shown that he is fit and ready, he will add experience, firepower and potency to the bowling unit.”

The release further read: Gabriel, the powerfully-built, six-footer has made a full recovery from the ankle surgery. On tour he has bowled in three innings and grabbed eight wickets for 122 runs. The 32-year-old is one of the most experienced members of the squad. He made his Test debut at Lord’s on May 17, 2012 and has so far played 45 matches. He has 133 wickets, placing him at Number 15 in the West Indies all-time list of Test match wicket-takers.

His career-best performance came two years ago at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in Saint Lucia when he took 8-62 against Sri Lanka to end with match figures of 13-121. He enters the upcoming series in the Top 20 of the International Cricket Council’s Test bowling rankings.

West Indies will travel from Manchester to Southampton on Friday as they continue preparations in a bid to retain the Wisden Trophy in the #RaiseTheBat Test Series. The first Test will be played at the Ageas Bowl, starting Wednesday, July 8. First ball daily is 11am (6am Guyana Time)

Test Squad: Jason Holder (captain), Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, Kraigg Brathwaite, Shamarh Brooks, John Campbell, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Chemar Holder, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach

Reserves: Sunil Ambris, Joshua DaSilva, Keon Harding, Kyle Mayers, Preston McSween, Marquino Mindley, Shayne Moseley, Anderson Phillip, Oshane Thomas, Jomel Warrican

West Indies Legend Sir Everton Weekes passes away at 95

West Indies batting legend, Sir Everton Weekes, has passed away aged 95 after fighting an ailment for a couple of months. He died at his Christ Church home in Barbados sometime Wednesday afternoon.

Cricket West Indies made a statement on their social media platforms, it read; “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of an icon. A legend, our hero, Sir Everton Weekes. Our condolences go out to his family, friends and many fans around the world. May he rest in peace.”

Sir Everton Weekes began his international career against England on January 21, 1948, and enjoyed a career spanning 48 Tests in 20 years with an excellent average of 58.61, he notched up 15 centuries and 19 half-centuries with a top score of 207.

He was a part of the legendary 3 Ws along with Sir Clyde Walcott and Sir Frank Worrell,

The trio, along with George Headley transformed the West Indies batting line-up into a consistent and formidable one.

GFF’s Forde urges discipline during Covid crisis, plans afoot for resumption of football

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President, Wayne Forde, is urging all stakeholders and athletes in the footballing fraternity to be disciplined as the Covid-19 pandemic is far from over.

In an exclusive interview with The 592 Dugout, Forde stated; “We (GFF) would like to thank the entire Football fraternity for adhering to the COVID-19 guidelines and to remind everyone that this crisis is not yet over and as difficult as it is, we have to remain disciplined”.

He also revealed; “The GFF National Team players were advised to adhere strictly to the COVID 19 guidelines as a matter of priority. The Head Coach and Team Management are in constant contact with the players and have provided individual work programmes aimed at helping them to maintain some level of fitness”.

The GFF boss also pointed out that the federation has remained in constant partnership with the Government of Guyana (GoG) and is working to help flatten the curve of Covid.

“The GFF remains well informed of the Government’s efforts to combat the spread of COVID 19 and we are doing everything within our power to complement those efforts”.

Looking ahead to when football can be played again, Forde pointed out; “The GFF has developed plans for the restart of on field activities but will only make those announcements after the Ministry of Public Health have provided appropriate guidance for outdoor activities”.

If any, the footballing landscape may see some changes and Forde noted; “All changes will be guided by the Football Governing bodies and the Ministry of Public Health. The GFF may also consider additional measures if necessary”.

Duncan trumps Hing, Madray as Archery Guyana’s Virtual Competition continues

The 13th stage of the ongoing 60X ISOL Remote Shoot Virtual Competition highlighted strong competition among three of Archery Guyana’s members in the Recurve 30m category, on Sunday (June 28) during the world’s ongoing lockdown for the Covid-19 Pandemic.

The match ended with Samira Duncan scoring 541 points whilst Umasankar Madray and Nicholas Hing scored 522 and 518 respectively. Yesterday marked the second appearance of all three archers in this series of matches. This exciting match took place yesterday in rather wet conditions with our local archers competing throughout the rain which cleared up only after the event was completed.

Nicholas Hing preparing to take a shot as Umasankar Madray looks on.

Duncan’s performance was much improved over her last appearance and she was able to find the 10 ring ten times during her 12 ends. The competition between Madray and Hing was fierce with Hing having a 22 points lead after 6 ends. However, Madray produced a masterful performance in the final 6 ends to overtake Hing’s final score by 4 points.

On the previous Sunday (June 2), the 12th stage of this competition had Madray competing against fellow Archery Guyana member Robert Singh. Madray performed well with excellent groupings but then experienced a problem with his equipment. Singh came in 1 point ahead of Madray, the final scores being Singh 531 and Madray 530.

The interest in this virtual competition continues to grow with archers from around the Caribbean participating regularly along with representatives from Europe, Africa, India, Korea, Australia and the USA. Registration for this competition series is done online and athletes choose which session and division they would shoot.

Scaled-down target faces are used to suit the specified distances for those shooting from home with limited space. Equipment inspection is done by taking a photo of bow and arrows, as well as target faces and sent online. A QR code is then sent for archers to login and send scores after every end along with pictures of arrows in target for scoring.

The competition continues next Sunday, (July 5) with stage 14, as Archery Guyana urges its members with access to safe home facilities to participate.

All archers are mandated to observe our National health and safety requirements and the PAHO/WHO guidelines for prevention of COVID-19.
Archery Guyana wishes to thank Mr. Robert Singh for his input and facilitation of this Novel competition here in Guyana.