GUYANA Jaguars’ head coach Esaun Crandon says consistency, leadership and an all-round team effort were responsible for his side’s dominant showing in the recently-concluded 2017-18 Digicel Regional First-Class four-day Championship.
The Jaguars romped to their fourth consecutive title, and was by far the most dominant team.
“We played consistent cricket, but having said that, it was a total team effort … the younger players in the squad also played a big part,” Crandon said.
Crandon, the former national fast bowler added, “Yes, we played consistent cricket; yes, it was a total team effort; yes the younger players played their part, but the leadership skills of skipper Leon Johnson also played a major part in our success.
“It is very evident from his body language and his constant interaction with the players. It is his confidence in the players’ ability which has helped them perform to their full potential and this is what gives them the belief.”
Further, Crandon believes that preparation and the support received from his support staff, the general public and more importantly, the local governing body also played a pivotal role in the team’s success.
Meanwhile, Crandon pointed out that while winning is important, producing quality players is his ultimate goal. He noted that the revamped structure at the first-class level has allowed the game to be played in a more competitive environment.
Further, the Guyana Jaguars feat has not gone unnoticed.
Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Anand Sanasie congratulated the players for their hard work which has been reflected in their recent win and outstanding individual sperformances.
Sanasie declared that the result was due to the close-knitted relationship between the players and their coaches.
Meanwhile, the Jaguars completed an innings and 81 runs win over Trinidad and Tobago’s Red Force yesterday in the final round at the National Stadium, Providence.
Resuming on 282-8, Jason Mohammed completed his eight first-class hundred before left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul and Keemo Paul took the final two wickets.
Permaul bowled Bryan Charles (15) while Paul bowled Anderson Phillip (11). Mohammed was left unbeaten on 103. Raymond Reifer was named Man-of-the-Match.
Meanwhile, the defeat was the fourth on the trot for Red Force while Jaguars racked up their seventh win in 10 matches, to end the season unbeaten.