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Lomar Seecharran turned in a mega all-round performance and Marcel Nandu continued his fine batting form to highlight the third round of the Demerara Cricket Board’s Inter-Association Under-17, 50-over competition on Saturday.

In the latest round of games, West Demerara defeated Upper Demerara by 27 runs, while East Coast produced a 26-run success over East Bank.

At the Transport ground, it was all the Seecharran show, albeit in defeat.

First with the ball, the off-spinner grabbed superb figures of 6-20 off nine overs and fellow spinner Balashankar Narine picked up 2-25 off 6.2 overs as West Demerara made 172 from 43.2 overs.

Nathan Bishop (left) scored 54* for Upper Demerara and Arvin Suknandand topscored for West Demerara with 34

The match was reduced to 45 overs, due to rain. Arvin Suknandand 34 (4x4s), Murali Seodat 29 (3x4s) and Parmeshwar Ram 28 (2x4s, 1×6) were the leading scorers for West Demerara.

The left-handed Seecharran then made 43 (6x4s) and fellow Demerara Cricket Club batter Nathan Bishop topscored with 54* (9x4s), but Upper Demerara fell short, being bowled out for 145 from 42 overs.

Parmeshwar Ram 2-17 (9), Patrice Fraser 2-26 (9), Wazir Gulam 2-36 (9) and Joshua Kisshundial 2-19 (3) were the leading wicket-takers.

Marcel Nandu (left) made his second consecutive fifty to cop successive Player-of-the-Match awards

Over at the Lusignan ground, the match between East Coast and East Bank was reduced to 34 overs per side due to rain.

Inserted to take first strike, East Coast posted 154-6 from 34 overs with Nandu hitting 65 (7x4s), his second consecutive fifty in the tournament, and Munesh Outar making 50 (3x4s, 2x6s).

Bowling for East Bank, Wazim Ali took 2-20 (4), Ravindra Singh 2-20 (6) and Roupie Rajaram 2-39 (6.1).

In reply, East Bank were dismissed for 128 in 32.1 overs with Demerara Under-15 all-rounder Vinesh Kalpoo making 28 (3x4s) and Ravindra Singh 25 (2x4s). Extras were 27.

Bowling for East Coast, seamer Navindra Isurdeen picked up 4-34 (7) and Eric Phillips 2-13 (4.1), while there one each for Outar, Richie Seodat and Nandu.

The competition continues on Sunday (March 9) with Georgetown and East Coast colliding at the Queen’s College ground, with the LBI ground hosting Upper Demerara and East Bank.

The final round is slated for Tuesday (March 11) with Georgetown and Upper Demerara squaring off at Transport and West Demerara having home advantage against East Bank at Meten-Meer-Zorg.

All matches will start at 09:30h.

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The Enmore Cricket Club recently completed a cricket tour of the island of Curaçao, winning their three matches against the Suffisant CC.

The six-day tour to the island was planned in August 2024. Two T20 matches and one 25-over game were contested by the two teams.

Enmore prevailed in the three games with consistent batting performances from Vivikanand Ishwardin- who finished with the most runs and copped the MVP award- and good bowling performances from Yuvraj Dayal, who captured the most wickets.

Vivikanand Ishwardin (left) and Yuvraj Dayal were rewarded for top individual performances

Game One: Enmore won by 16 runs. SUMMARY: Enmore 176-7 from 20 overs (V. Ishwardin 56, A. Mahase 22, Y. Dayal 21, B. Ramkelawan 21) vs Suffisant CC 160-8 from 20 overs (G. Ishwardin 4-23, Y. Dayal 2-28)

Game Two: Enmore won by 91 runs. SUMMARY: Enmore 226-7 from 20 overs (V. Wilkinson 66, B. Ramkelawan-34, R. Hiralall 34, D. Mangal 25) vs Suffisant CC 135 all out (G. Ishwardin 2-34, M. Mahase 1-10, Y.Dayal 1-25, A. Mahase 1-21, A. Gibson 1-31)

Game Three: Enmore won by 70 runs. SUMMARY: Enmore 182 all out from 25 overs (V. Ishwardin 41, A. Mahase 32, D. Mangal 28) vs Suffisant CC 112 all out (Y. Dayal 3-9, Baker 3-16, R. Hiralall 2-9, A. Mahase 2-33)

With generous support from the corporate community, the team was smartly decked out for the tour

The Enmore team was outfitted with training uniforms, compliments of Cricket Zone USA, whilst new playing clothing was sponsored by Rajin’s Auto Paint, Bhagwan General Store and JC Auto Sales.

The club wishes to extend its gratitude to Cricket Zone USA, Rajin’s Auto Paint and Accessories and JC Auto Sales for their kind sponsorship.

Prior to the final game, the two teams paid their respect to club captain Satash Jainarine, who passed away the said day after a period of illness.

He was hospitalised in India.

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The prestigious 25 Influential Women Leaders Award (25ILWA) has unveiled the 25 exceptional Guyanese women who will be honoured at the highly anticipated Sixth Anniversary and Leadership Awards. The event will take place on Saturday, May 17, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, Seawall Road, Georgetown.

As Guyana’s foremost accolade, the 25ILWA recognises visionary women from the public, private, and non-profit sectors who have demonstrated remarkable leadership in driving transformation and excellence across various industries. This year’s ceremony marks a significant moment in honouring these trailblazing women, coinciding with Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day.

The theme for 2025, “Women’s Rights. Strongest Alliance. Most Influential Women,” highlights the global movement towards gender equity and the power of collective leadership. The women recognised this year have been celebrated for their remarkable contributions to their fields, communities, and organisations.

The distinguished list of awardees includes Abbigale Loncke-Watson, Avia Maria Lindie, Ayodele Roache, Carla Cassiano, Colleen Prince, Devica Kamini Uditram, Francina Lanferman-Duncan, Hebron Edwards, Jasmaine Payne, Mahadevi Doobay-Girdhary, Martina McDonald-Johnson, Melissa Dow-Richardson, Mendy Angele Nicholson, Naudya Hoosein, Nazima Raghubir, Reisa Roberts, Romela Sahadeo, Sadhana Samtani-Sultan, Safina Lutchman, Savina Sukhnandan, Sophia Dolphin, Tamana Safraj, Tessa Fernandes, Vanessa Elizabeth Williams-Rodriguez, and Vidya Ketwaroo.

Michelle A. Nicholas, Founder and CEO of The NICO Consulting and co-founder of the 25ILWA, praised the honourees, emphasising that leadership is about empowering others. “True leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about empowering others to find their own voice and champion their unique potential,” she said. “The 25ILWA is a testament to the power of collective strength, where these incredible women are not only recognised for their impact but celebrated as leaders shaping the future of Guyana.”

Lyndell Danzie-Black, Managing Director of Cerulean Inc. and co-founder of the award, expressed her enthusiasm by acknowledging the ongoing challenges women face. “Women have been integral in shaping economies, advancing innovation, and nurturing communities, all while breaking down barriers in every sector,” she said. “Yet, true progress remains elusive, as too many women still face systemic challenges such as gender-based violence, inequality, and limited opportunities. This year’s awardees inspire future generations by embodying leadership, excellence, and impact.”

Since its inception in 2019, the 25ILWA has grown to become a prominent platform advocating for inclusivity, empowerment, and progress, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping Guyana’s future. The initiative has gained widespread recognition with increasing nominations each year, thanks to its rigorous and transparent selection process. An independent panel of esteemed judges from both Guyana and the diaspora evaluate the nominees based on their influence and impact.

With 125 pioneering women inducted into the 25ILWA network to date, this year’s honourees will also have the unique opportunity to apply for the Women’s Leadership Programme, further enhancing their leadership capabilities.

The Sixth Anniversary gala promises to be a night of inspiration, unity, and recognition, bringing together key leaders from various sectors, including industry, government, and the corporate world. It will celebrate the women shaping the future of Guyana.

Organisations that are committed to gender equity and leadership development are encouraged to seize sponsorship opportunities to demonstrate their support for advancing women’s leadership and fostering a more inclusive future.

Tickets for the event can be purchased online via Eventbrite, MMG+, or at various local outlets, including RNS Insurance Brokers & Consultants, Lexann’s Nail Creations, and World Access Top Up Shop. For more information, please contact 25influentialwomen@gmail.com or call 592-623-1189.

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Fireman Vashan Manbodh, 27, has passed away following spine injuries sustained while battling the devastating fire that destroyed the Mae’s Schools at Subryanville, Georgetown, on Wednesday.

Despite the best efforts of medical professionals at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), the young firefighter succumbed to his injuries late on Saturday night.

Manbodh, along with fellow firefighter Morrison, was critically injured when part of the school building collapsed during the intense blaze. Both men were rushed to the hospital, but it was Manbodh’s injuries, which affected his spine and shoulders, that proved fatal.

Fire Chief Gregory Wickham expressed his deep sorrow on Sunday morning, confirming the loss of a “dear” member of the fire service family. Speaking to the News Room, he described Manbodh as a dedicated and valued firefighter whose tragic death has left a profound impact on his colleagues and the community.

“Yes, one of them passed last night,” Fire Chief Wickham confirmed. “Fireman Manbodh was injured during the fire, not the blaze itself, but during a building collapse. He was taken to the hospital immediately and was being treated by specialists. Unfortunately, he passed despite all efforts made to save him.”

Wickham reflected on the personal toll the loss has taken on the fire service family. “We’ve lost a dear of a firefighter. He was a true hero who gave his all. This is a very hard time for us,” he said.

Regarding his colleague, Fireman Morrison, Wickham reported that while he also sustained injuries, he is expected to recover. “Morrison… has been discharged from critical care and is recovering. We continue to offer our support to him and his family during this time.”

The fire service has been in constant contact with Manbodh’s family, offering condolences and support. Wickham shared that he had personally reached out to Manbodh’s mother after receiving the devastating news. “We are all deeply saddened by this loss,” he added. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. He was a brave and dedicated firefighter, and he will be missed.”

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Abram Zuil Secondary have made history with a stunning 8-0 victory over Charity Secondary in the preliminary round of the 11th Milo Schools Football Tournament.

The dominant performance, Abram Zuil’s first-ever win against Charity, saw them control the match from start to finish.

Omar Kendall set the tone with two early goals, followed by strikes from Lester Noel and Otis Roberts, giving Abram Zuil a 4-0 lead at half-time.

The second half continued in the same vein, with Noel completing a hat-trick, an own goal from Charity’s Marion Simpson, and further goals from Eron Benjamin and Noel again sealing the emphatic victory.

This result marks a significant moment for Abram Zuil, now under the guidance of new Head Coach Dwayne James and Assistant Coach Azizi Christiani. The coaches are confident their team can go far in the tournament.

“This is a massive moment for the team and the school,” said Coach James. “It’s a testament to the hard work we’ve put in.”

Abram Zuil’s impressive performance has positioned them as serious contenders in the tournament.

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The seventh season of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Elite League is set to begin this Sunday at the GFF’s National Training Centre in Providence.

On the opening day, newcomers Mainstay Gold Stars FC and Ann’s Grove FC will clash at 18:30h.

This will be followed by an opening ceremony at 20:15h, and then a highly anticipated match between title contenders Slingerz FC and Monedderlust FC at 21:00h.

The training centre has undergone upgrades to improve spectator comfort.

While the GFF has not yet announced a title sponsor or prize money for the season, last season’s champions, Guyana Defence Force (GDF), received $2,000,000.

GDF have won the league three times, Slingerz FC once, and Fruta Conquerors twice.

In Season Six, GDF retained its title with 50 points, followed by Slingerz FC with 46 and Guyana Police Force FC with 34.

Season Seven will see an increased focus on youth and women’s development, with clubs required to participate in Under-17 Girls and Boys competitions, as well as the Women’s Division One League.

These competitions are mandatory for clubs to secure a Concacaf Club License, essential for participating in regional and international tournaments.

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Guyana Harpy Eagles asserted their dominance with a comprehensive 214-run victory over Jamaica Scorpions on the fourth day of their fourth-round clash in the 2025 West Indies Four-Day Championship.

Set an imposing target of 488, the Scorpions fought valiantly, but ultimately succumbed to 274 all out.

Kirk McKenzie’s defiant 147, a display of resilience featuring 15 fours and five sixes, prolonged the inevitable, but lacked sufficient support.

The Harpy Eagles’ bowling attack, spearheaded by Gudakesh Motie and Ronaldo Alimohamed, proved too potent for the Scorpions.

Motie claimed 4-69, while Alimohamed and the seasoned Veerasammy Permaul each took 3-42 and 3-50 respectively, dismantling the Scorpions’ batting lineup.

Resuming on 173-3, the Scorpions’ hopes of a miraculous escape were quickly extinguished by the Harpy Eagles’ disciplined bowling. McKenzie’s lone stand provided the only resistance as the hosts crumbled under pressure.

The Scorpions’ batting woes were evident throughout the match, particularly in their first innings where they were humiliated for a mere 44.

Alimohamed’s sensational six-wicket haul in that innings set the tone for the Harpy Eagles’ dominance.

Earlier in the match, Kevlon Anderson’s magnificent 116 anchored the Harpy Eagles’ first innings total of 339.

A second innings declaration of 193-3, featuring Tagenarine Chanderpaul’s 74 and Kevlon Anderson’s unbeaten 50, further emphasised the Harpy Eagles’ superiority.

The Harpy Eagles, the defending champions, have now secured their third victory in four matches.

They will return home to Providence to face Windward Islands Volcanoes starting on Wednesday, March 12.

FULL SCORECARD: https://matchcentre.windiescricket.com/match/56c7a577-5058-45dc-b62b-907bfcc1c220/4

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In an address to newly promoted detectives, Deputy Commissioner of Law Enforcement, Wendell Blanhum, highlighted the challenges that come with advancing through the ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Quoting Christian Horner, he remarked, “The higher you rise, the sharper the knives.”

The Crime Chief made these remarks at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe on Saturday, during the opening of a one-day training seminar designed for officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The seminar focused on three pivotal components of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to modernise its criminal justice system.

Urging the newly promoted detectives to maintain professionalism despite the challenges they may face, Crime Chief Blanhum explained, “The more you climb the rank structure, the more authority and titles you acquire, and with that comes increased scrutiny – both positive and negative.

“There will be envy, betrayal, and attempts to undermine you, just as it was with figures like Jesus Christ. You will be targeted by those who wish for your failure.”

He encouraged his ranks to remain steadfast and committed to the task at hand, despite the adversities they may encounter. “Stay the course and continue striving for the top of this noble organisation. Always maintain your professionalism, even when faced with those who wish for your downfall. Proverbs 14:30 reminds us that ‘a heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones,’ a powerful message that shows how destructive envy can be to one’s well-being,” Blanhum advised.

The training seminar, led by the Guyana Police Force’s Junior Legal Advisor, Ms. Janet A. Ali, focused on three critical legal reforms designed to enhance the country’s criminal justice system. These include the Needham’s Point Declaration on Criminal Justice Reform, the Criminal Law Procedure (Paper Committals) Act 2024, and the Criminal Procedure (Plea Discussion, Plea Agreement, and Assistance Agreement) Act 2024. [Extracted and modified from press release issued by the Guyana Police Force]. 

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Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, has announced that approximately nine million bags of paddy are expected to be harvested during the first crop of 2025. The statement was made during a meeting with rice farmers from Region Three, West Coast of Demerara.

Minister Mustapha highlighted that over the past four years, the government has made significant investments in infrastructure to support the growth of the agriculture sector. Additionally, the government has provided various inputs to help reduce the costs associated with rice farming.

“As a government, we recognise the value of the rice industry, and that’s why we’ve made inputs available. For this crop, the 233,000 acres of rice, when we examine the estimated amount of paddy to be harvested, is around 9 million bags. We’ve removed VAT on agricultural inputs. On two occasions, fertiliser was procured and provided to farmers. We’re also working to rehabilitate and expand all seed facilities so that farmers can access seeds in a more timely manner, with improved varieties producing better yields. Over the past four years, we’ve launched three new varieties. The support has been substantial over the years,” Minister Mustapha said.

A section of the meeting

The Minister also addressed concerns raised on social media by anti-government critics, clarifying that negotiations between the millers and the government began weeks ago.

“The President engaged the millers on several occasions to determine how we can collaborate to keep the price of paddy stable. These negotiations didn’t happen overnight; they started weeks ago. At one point, there was a deadlock, but the President intervened and committed to ensuring farmers receive a minimum of $4,000 per bag of paddy. Every bag of paddy that the farmer sells to the mill, we need to contribute. When you do the calculations, we have to inject approximately $2.7 billion to ensure farmers get a better price,” Minister Mustapha explained.

The Minister emphasised that the PPP/C government has always been proactive in engaging with farmers and stepping in when needed to ensure they receive fair treatment.

A farmer while raising an issue during the meeting

“The millers argued they could not pay $4,000 per bag due to the current world market price and other factors. To reach an agreement, we had to make a contribution. We’ve done it before, and we’ll do it again. Like any responsible government, we ensure that relief reaches the people. The farmers know that this government, under President Irfaan Ali, has and will always ensure they get a fair deal,” he said.

Minister Mustapha also shared plans for the Ministry to explore the procurement of a Jaclo sprayer, valued at approximately $6.5 million, to assist farmers in the region with chemical application.

In 2024, Guyana’s rice production surpassed expectations, reaching an all-time high of 725,282 metric tonnes – a remarkable achievement for the country’s agricultural sector.

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