Blog

that needed a super over to decide the winner.

Chasing KKR’s 155-8, Lucknow required seven runs to win from Kartik Tyagi’s last ball, which Mohammed Shami launched for six to force a tie and send the match into a super over.

Sunil Narine dismissed Nicholas Pooran and Aiden Markram to restrict hosts Lucknow to just one run batting first in the super over before Rinku Singh, who had emerged as KKR’s star on the field with four catches, fittingly hit the winning runs.

Earlier, Mohsin Khan had claimed five wickets as Lucknow took early control after asking KKR to bat first.

The 27-year-old Indian left-arm seamer set the tone early by dismissing Tim Seifert for a three-ball duck in a wicket-maiden and finished with 5-23 to leave Kolkata reeling at 73-6.

But Rinku produced a stunning late surge, smashing four consecutive sixes in the last over to remain unbeaten on 83 from 51 balls and help KKR post 155-8.

Lucknow lost wickets at regular intervals as they struggled to keep pace during the chase but Rishabh Pant’s 42 and contributions from Markram and Ayush Badoni set up the dramatic finish.

Kolkata climb to eighth place with five points while Lucknow are bottom with four. (BBC)

The post IPL 2026: KKR beat Lucknow in thrilling Super Over finish appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Gujarat Titans bounced back from two consecutive defeats in the Indian Premier League with Kagiso Rabada spearheading their commanding eight-wicket win against Chennai Super Kings.

Asked to bat first, CSK were forced onto the back foot as South African pacer Rabada took 3-25, including the wickets of opener Sanju Samson, who became the 10th player and the fastest Indian to reach 5,000 IPL runs, and Urvil Patel in the fourth over.

Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad registered his first half-century of the season, scoring 74 from 60 balls, and shared a 59-run stand with Shivam Dube to steady the innings before England’s Jamie Overton smashed 18 from six balls to lift Chennai to 158-7.

Shubman Gill scored 33 as Gujarat raced to 58-0 in the powerplay before the captain departed two balls later, but fellow opener Sai Sudharsan then shared a decisive 97-run partnership with England wicketkeeper Jos Buttler.

Sudharsan scored 87 from 46 balls before falling four runs short of the target but Buttler guided Gujarat home with an unbeaten 39 from 30 balls.

With their fourth win of the season, Gujarat leapfrog Chennai to fifth place while CSK now sit two points behind in sixth. (BBC)

The post IPL 2026: Clinical Titans rebound to beat CSK appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Sabastian Sawe made history at the London Marathon by becoming the first athlete to run a sub-two-hour marathon in a competitive race.

The 30-year-old Kenyan crossed the line to win in one hour, 59 minutes, 30 seconds, more than one minute faster than the late Kelvin Kiptum’s previous record of 2:00:35, set in 2023.

The great Eliud Kipchoge became the first man to run a marathon in under two hours in 2019, but that was not record-eligible as it was held under controlled conditions.

Already on world record pace as he crossed the halfway mark in 1:00:29, Sawe was able to speed up over the second half of the race to run even faster than Kipchoge’s time.

Sawe made his decisive move before the final 10km, with only debutant Yomif Kejelcha able to cover his surge off the front.

Remarkably, Kejelcha, making his marathon debut, became the second man to run under two hours in race conditions, finishing runner-up in 1:59:41.

Half marathon world record holder Jacob Kiplimo also crossed the line faster than Kiptum’s former record, completing the podium in 2:00:28.

Sawe, speaking on BBC TV, said: “I am feeling good. I am so happy. It is a day to remember for me.”

“We started the race well. Approaching finishing the race, I was feeling strong. Finally reaching the finish line, I saw the time, and I was so excited.”

How Sawe achieved sporting immortality in London

Much of the focus beforehand had been about Sawe – winner of last year’s race in 2:02:27 – targeting Kiptum’s London Marathon course record of 2:01:25.

He told BBC Sport this week that it was “only a matter of time” before he broke Kiptum’s world record, adding “I hope and wish one day [it will be me]” when asked about becoming the first person to run under two hours in a race.

Sawe had targeted Kiptum’s world record in Berlin last September, when he went through halfway in 60:16, before that bid was ultimately undone by the hot weather.

But, in perfect race conditions in London, Sawe stormed down The Mall to achieve that historic feat, doing so in a time which was once considered impossible. (BBC)

The post Sawe smashes two-hour mark to ‘move goalposts for marathon running’ appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Former Agriculture Minister Satyadeow Sawh was on Saturday hailed as a remarkable human being by President Dr. Irfaan Ali and other members of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) as they joined in observing the 20th anniversary of his assassination.

“Comrade Sash Sawh lived a life of conviction. He was convinced that his life was for a purpose. He was convinced that he was representing something larger than life. He was convinced that he was representing a cause and his life was structured based on that conviction which was based on belief, dignity, value and purpose,” President Ali said.

He noted that the contributions of the former Minister are important as Guyana celebrates its 60th independence anniversary, as he lauded Sawh’s fight for the return of democracy in Guyana.

The President noted that the former Minister exuded many admirable traits, including kindness, humbleness, compassion and a genuine care for others.

“Those who knew him remember his kindness, his willingness to listen, and his unwavering belief in people. May his soul continue to rest in eternal peace,” he added.

Sawh, his sister Phulmattie Persaud, brother Rajpat Rai Sawh, and security guard Curtis Robinson were gunned down on the evening of April 22, 2008, at the Minister’s residence in La Bonne Intention, East Coast Demerara. One man was charged with the murder.

Former President Donald Ramotar, who also offered remarks, noted that despite the circumstances surrounding Sawh’s death, he lived a life that should be celebrated, as the country reaps the benefits of his fight for democracy.

“I think the family of Sash Sawh can very well feel contented, despite the sadness and tragic circumstances, they can feel contented by the quality of life that he lived, that he served his fellow countrymen and his contributions even went beyond the shores of Guyana,” he noted.

The former Minister was a devoted Hindu. As such, Saturday’s remembrance ceremony took the form of a Hawan and tribute, and included several other remarks from religious leaders and party members.

The post Fmr. Agriculture Minister Satyadeow Sawh remembered on 20th death anniversary appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Deuquan Farrell produced a sprinting masterclass on the final day of the IV South American Youth Games in Panama, etching his name into the history books.

The Linden-born sprinter, who has been chasing a major international podium finish for Guyana for some time, delivered a dominant performance in the 200m final at the Estadio Rommel Fernández.

Blazing across the finish line in  21.18 seconds, Farrell did more than just secure gold; he obliterated the previous Games record of 21.28 seconds set by Argentina’s Tomás Mondino in 2022.

The magnitude of the performance resonates far beyond the continent, as Farrell’s winning time currently ranks as the 15th-fastest U-18 200m time in the world this year.

It serves as a personal redemption after a challenging Easter weekend at the CARIFTA Games in Grenada, where he watched Bahamian sensation Egan Neely set the world-leading U-18 mark of 20.63 seconds.

Following Farrell on the podium was Mateus Mendez of Ecuador, who claimed silver in 21.24 seconds, while Brazil’s Pedro Nunes rounded out the podium with a 21.74-second finish for bronze.

Guyana nearly secured two spots on the podium, but Gordon Thompson finished a fraction behind in fourth with a time of 21.87 seconds.

Farrell’s golden moment in the 200m was his second trip to the top of the podium, following his contribution to the 4x100m relay victory earlier in the meet.

He returned to the track later in the afternoon to anchor a gutsy performance in the Men’s 4x400m relay.

Alongside teammates Ade Sealy, Gordon Thompson, and Ebo McNeil, Farrell helped the Guyanese quartet secure a bronze medal in 3:20.46.

Colombia took gold in 3:16.39, followed by Chile.

With the athletics program concluding, Guyana’s final medal tally stands at seven: three gold, one silver, and three bronze medals.

This haul places the nation 10th in the overall standings, an impressive feat driven almost entirely by the track-and-field contingent.

The nation’s three gold medals came courtesy of Farrell’s 200m record-breaker, Ezekiel Millington’s victory in the 100m, and the Boys’ 4x100m relay team. Gordon Thompson added a silver in the 100m, while Ebo McNeil earned bronze medals in the 1500m and the 4x400m relay team.

Boxer Ken Harvey provided the solitary medal outside of athletics, claiming bronze in the ring to complete a successful campaign for the young Guyanese delegation.

FULL RESULTS: https://results.panama2026.org/#/schedule/daily/2026-04-12

The post South American Youth Games: Deuquan Farrell shatters 200m record as Guyana ends with seven medals appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Guyana is shifting into high gear as President Dr. Irfaan Ali hailed the country’s growing sports tourism sector following the official signing of the GT Challenge de las Americas.

The event, scheduled for July 12-13 at the South Dakota Circuit, is being positioned as a landmark moment for Caribbean motorsport. President Ali likened the upcoming challenge to cricket’s ‘CPL’, emphasising its role as a pillar of Guyana’s “orange economy.”

“I’m very pleased to witness another instalment of us building out our tourism product,” President Ali said. “Sports tourism has been identified as one of the areas that we’ll pursue vigorously.”

Fans can expect a full-factory spectacle featuring GT3-spec machinery from Ferrari, McLaren, Lamborghini, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.

While Guyana plays host, the event will carry a distinct regional identity as the President confirmed that the competition would fly the CARICOM flag, with prominent drivers from the Trinidadian racing community set to compete under the Caribbean banner.

Franchise holder Franklyn Boodram explained that Guyana was the clear choice for the third round of the series, citing:

• Geographical location and logistics
• Direct flight availability for international teams
• Exceptional government support for the sport

The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) is already midway through a massive transformation of the South Dakota facility to meet international standards.

With government backing, the Timehri circuit is receiving significant upgrades, including a revamped pit straight and the installation of FIA-spec curbing and enhanced safety barriers.

“I’d like to thank the President for seeing the vision of motor racing and the upward trend we are seeing in Guyana,” said GMR&SC President Mohamad Shairaz Roshandin.

GT Challenge Director, Eduardo Aguilar, added that the initiative represents a “very good opportunity” to elevate the standard of racing across Caribbean and Central American borders.

The July event is expected to draw a massive influx of drivers and teams from across Latin America for what is being described as a historic moment for the local tracks. (Modified GMR&SC Press Release) 

The post ‘GT Challenge Americas is the CPL of Motorsport’ – President Ali appeared first on News Room Guyana.

A night of high drama in the Georgetown zone saw heavyweights tumble and penalty shootouts reign supreme as the final four of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ championship was decided at the National Culture Centre Tarmac.

The quarter-final stage proved to be a graveyard for the tournament favourites as three of the four marquee fixtures required the dreaded penalty mark to separate the sides after deadlocks in regulation time.

The biggest shock of the evening belonged to Bent Street B, who produced a disciplined defensive masterclass to eliminate the iconic Sparta Boss.

Despite the star-studded reputation of the Sparta unit, they were unable to breach the Bent Street rear guard during a tense scoreless draw. In the ensuing shootout, Bent Street held their nerve to secure a 2-1 victory.

Elsewhere in the championship bracket, Island All-Stars survived a gruelling sudden-death shootout to overcome Festival City.

After neither side could find the net in normal time, the penalty marathon ended 5-4 in favour of the All-Stars.

Leopold Street followed a similar blueprint, neutralising the threat of Gold is Money in a 0-0 stalemate before clinical finishing from the spot earned them a 2-1 win.

The only team to bypass the lottery of penalties was New Bay Ballers. In a rare display of clinical finishing on the night, they edged out National All-Stars 2-1 to ensure their progression without the need for additional drama.

While the championship section was defined by narrow margins, the Guinness Plate segment offered more variety.

Albouystown provided the standout performance of the entire evening, dismantling East Coast All-Stars in a ruthless 4-0 victory. Their fluidity and pace served notice to the rest of the field as they cruised into the next round.

Defending champions Laing Avenue showed the grit of winners, coming from behind to secure a 2-1 win over Z-Tekk. North East La Penitence also booked their spot in the next phase with a disciplined 1-0 win over Broad Street, while Team Cruel advanced without kicking a ball following a walkover against Team Immaculate.

In the Plate semi-finals on April 29, North East La Penitence will test themselves against Festival City, while Team Cruel faces a stern examination against the National All-Stars.

Albouystown’s scoring prowess will be pitted against Gold is Money, and Laing Avenue will look to inflict more damage on a wounded Sparta Boss.

The main event sees Leopold Street clash with the inform New Bay Ballers for a spot in the grand finale, while in the second championship semi-final, Island All-Stars will look to end the fairy-tale run of Bent Street B.

The post Street Football: Bent Street ‘B’ eliminate Sparta Boss as semi-final spots confirmed appeared first on News Room Guyana.

A damp afternoon at the National Park saw Guyana’s ‘Green Machine’ fall to a frustrating 9-5 defeat against Bermuda, as the visitors capitalised on a series of technical errors to kick-start their Rugby Americas North (RAN) XVs campaign with a gritty victory.

Despite sitting four places higher in the World Rugby rankings at 70th, Guyana struggled to convert territorial dominance into points in a physical interregional test match.

For skipper Rondel McArthur, the result represents a significant missed opportunity against a 74th-ranked Bermuda side he identified as  “the team to beat” in the Tier II competition.

The hosts initially looked the more enterprising side, fueled by the barnstorming offensive carries of Vallon Adams.

It was Adams’ directness that provided the platform for the opening score in the 18th minute, as Lionel Holder found the gap to touch down for the game’s only try.

However, the missed conversion proved a harbinger of the kicking struggles to follow.

Bermuda remained patient, clawing their way back into the contest via the boot of Brandon Sangster.

His first penalty ten minutes later trimmed the deficit, leaving the score at 5-3 as the teams retreated for the half-time interval.

The second half was a story of Guyanese enterprise met with Bermudian resilience. While the Green Machine found themselves repeatedly in the offensive zone, their efforts were undone by a lack of finesse in their technical plays and a string of costly dropped balls at crucial moments.

Sangster turned the screw in the 48th minute to put the visitors ahead for the first time, before adding a third penalty in the 62nd minute to stretch the lead to four points.

Guyana pushed late for a match-winning try, but the clinical edge required to break a disciplined Bermudian line remained elusive.

The defeat serves as a sobering introduction to the new RAN Men’s XVs promotion-relegation model, which is designed to reward development with cross-tier matchups.

Up next, Guyana will head to face 71st-ranked Barbados on June 6, before returning home to host a formidable Trinidad and Tobago side—ranked 49th—on June 26.

The post Bermuda frustrate Guyana in 9-5 victory appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi struck an explosive 36-ball century – the 15-year-old’s second in the Indian Premier League – but it was not enough to prevent Rajasthan Royals slipping to a defeat by Sunrisers Hyderabad.

It is the third fastest IPL hundred after his own 35-ball effort last season, when he became the youngest centurion in men’s Twenty20 cricket, and Chris Gayle’s 30-ball onslaught for Royal Challengers Bangalore (now Bengaluru) in 2013.

The teenager is also the fastest to reach 1,000 T20 runs – taking only 473 balls to reach the mark, quicker than Australian duo Mitchell Owen (533) and Andrew Symonds (558).

Sooryavanshi plundered four consecutive sixes against Praful Hinge in the opening over before clearing the rope three more times to race to a half-century in only 15 balls. He reached his ton with his 12th six in the 15th over, but fell to Sakib Hussain the following ball.

However, with the rest of the Rajasthan batters and extras contributing only 125 off 83 balls, 228-6 proved not enough to secure a home victory, as Hyderabad cruised to a five-wicket victory.

There was also concern for the home side when Sooryavanshi appeared to pull up while fielding at the start of Hyderabad’s chase, and limped off the field for treatment.

England seamer Jofra Archer gave Rajasthan a strong start by dismissing Hyderabad’s Australia opener Travis Head in the first over of the chase.

But Abhishek Sharma (47) and Ishan Kishan (74) then took control to steer Hyderabad to the win, reaching their target with nine balls to spare – making it the fourth highest successful chase in IPL history.

With their fourth consecutive victory, they move level on 10 points with Rajasthan and Bengaluru, with the trio three points behind leaders Punjab Kings. (BBC)

The post IPL 2026: Sooryavanshi, 15, hits 36-ball ton but Royals lose to SRH appeared first on News Room Guyana.

To ensure stronger outcomes in Mathematics over the next five years, Minister of Education Sonia Parag has outlined a strategic plan which prioritises strengthening teacher training and improving literacy and numeracy.

Speaking in a special sit-down interview, Minister Parag said these long-term solutions will complement ongoing efforts to prepare children for the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination.

Expounding on the measures implemented over the past few months, Minister Parag said there was robust training for Mathematics teachers to sharpen their assessment techniques. She said this training will become more targeted, and will include a review of the curriculum at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).

“We need to look and see what they’re [teachers] being taught, how they’re being taught and how that is going to translate into the classroom. Delivery is important,” Minister Parag said.

As it relates to improving literacy and numeracy rates, Minister Parag said this is non-negotiable as the two go hand in hand. She disclosed that, for the first time in 2026, the ministry has commenced its Literacy Assessment Programme for Grades 2 and 4 pupils. The goal is for every pupil to be literate by Grade 4. According to Minister Parag, the ministry will introduce its numeracy assessments for Grades 2 and 4 in 2027.

The intensified training for teachers, as well as the focus on numeracy and literacy, will build upon the Mathematics Intervention Programme, which commenced in 2024 for Grades 10 and 11 students.

The initiative included the distribution of past paper booklets, scientific calculators and targeted teacher support through Math Monitors. This contributed to a 32 per cent pass rate in 2025, marking a 5 per cent improvement in student performance.

Minister Parag praised the programme’s innovative design, which saw significant expansion in reach and quality delivery in just six months. She noted that as of 2026, the programme has been more accessible to schools in the hinterland.

“Regions 1, 7, 8 and 9 gained about 18 Math monitors from the programme,” Minister Parag said.

She also noted that hinterland schools benefited from improved access to digital learning tools, including smart boards in classrooms.

Minister Parag also highlighted the December 2025 launch of the Guyana Digital School, which gives students free access to NGSA and CSEC Mathematics lessons, along with other subjects, through online registration.

This year, the ministry also introduced “Maths Tents,” an outreach model that brings together students from multiple schools at one location for focused instruction. Initially rolled out for NGSA pupils and piloted this year for CSEC students, these Saturday classes target key problem areas, such as consumer arithmetic, fractions and construction.

The focus areas were identified through an analysis of Grade 5 assessment results and mock examinations for Grades 6 and 11, ensuring support is directed where it is needed most.

Minister Parag also noted that the instructors for each session are not the learners’ regular Mathematics teachers, but specially selected educators who bring a fresh approach to explaining core concepts and strengthen understanding of the subject.

“I know for a fact that the schools I visited and the students that I interacted with, were very happy to have the opportunity to get the extra lessons in Mathematics and to once again reinforce what they would have been taught in class,” Minister Parag said.

Since the examinations evaluate a child’s ability to comprehend a problem, outline their approach and arrive at a solution, Minister Parag underscored that the Math Tents are deliberately structured to refine those competencies. Beyond focused instruction, the official said Math Tents ultimately help reduce exam anxiety while spreading effective teaching practices across the system.

With continued investment in the Mathematics Intervention Programme and other long-term education strategies, Minister Parag expressed confidence that Guyana’s overall mathematics performance will see significant improvement over the next five years. (Education Ministry release)

The post Teachers training, improving literacy among plans to boost Maths performance – Min. Parag appeared first on News Room Guyana.