Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) continues to break new ground

THE Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) continues to break new grounds as it strives to develop the game in the Ancient County by securing sponsorship for a proposed fast-bowling clinic.

The club has secured sponsorship from overseas-based Guyanese Medical Doctor, Frank Denbow for the new year.

BCB president Hilbert Foster, who has spearheaded a major restoration of Berbice Cricket since his election in 2018, stated that the board would be organising a series of cricketing clinics as it strives to make sure that every emerging talent is given all the opportunities to develop.
Sir Curtly Ambrose

With this in mind, the board would be hosting at least 12 major clinics during 2022 to cater for every aspect of the game including fast-bowling, off-spin, leg-spin, left-arm orthodox, wicket-keeping, batting, fielding, physical fitness and captaincy.

BCB intends to use not only its own coaching staff but former and current Test players who are considered positive role models.

The BCB president stated that Dr Denbow contacted him about three months ago to inform him that he was very impressed with the raw talent of West Indies Under-19 player, Isai Thorne, and he was willing to sponsor a fast-bowling clinic if the board was able to obtain the services of legendary fast bowler Sir Curtly Ambrose.

The BCB president, who is also a Director of Cricket West Indies (CWI), opened discussions with Ambrose, who has indicated that he was available to come after the Under-19 World Cup – where he is the bowling coach – and the England/West Indies series where he is expected to serve as a cricket commentator.

Foster expects the clinic to be held in late March or early April.
The sponsorship is worth $1.3M and will cover the cost of a stipend for Ambrose, accommodation, local transportation, airline ticket, security and meals for a four-day visit.

The packed schedule would include three four-hour clinics, a welcome cocktail, question and answer segment with the youths, an award presentation and farewell ceremony. A trip to the Upper Corentyne area is also being planned.

Foster expressed thanks to Dr Dewbow for his support and noted that the generous doctor donated to the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) and Queen’s College during a recent visit to Guyana.