Pres Ali pledges support for international cricket tournaments as Guyana opens Masters World Cup

Guyana is strengthening its position as an international sporting destination, with President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali pledging the government’s full support for the staging of next year’s Over-40s T20 World Cup, as the country officially opened the second edition of the International Masters Cricket Over-40s World Cup on Friday night.

Addressing players, officials and supporters at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, the president welcomed the 15 participating teams.

He encouraged them to use the tournament to build lasting friendships, strengthen international relationships and experience Guyana’s culture and hospitality.

“Sports is not only about a game; sports is about relationships. It is about bringing people together. It’s about fusing cultures. It’s about bridging inequalities. It’s about celebration of life, and this tournament speaks to those important elements of sports,” President Ali said.

The tournament brings together former international and national cricketers who continue to compete at a high level, demonstrating that age does not have to be a barrier to participation in sport.

The president commended the players for their dedication to the game, noting that many had invested their own time, resources and effort to remain active in cricket and inspire others.

“Sports is that important product that allows us to remain competitive, to remain focused, to remain mentally strong, and to remain inspiration for our families, our communities, our clubs, and our country,” he said.

President Ali urged the players to compete with passion, pride and sportsmanship, while making the most of the opportunity to connect with fellow cricketers, professionals and businesspeople from participating countries.

He also encouraged the visiting teams and their families to explore Guyana, experience its rich culture and hospitality, and return for future visits.

He assured the organisers of the government’s support as they pursue their bid to host the Over-40s T20 World Cup in Guyana next year.

“If there is anything anyone on the team needs, just let us know. Minister Jacobs is here with you, and we will try our best to make your stay here as comfortable as you may want it to be,” President Ali told the visiting teams.

The second edition of the International Masters Cricket Over-40s World Cup features 15 teams, including defending champions South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, England, the United Arab Emirates and the West Indies.

Matches are scheduled to begin on Saturday at venues across Guyana. The West Indies, captained by former international wicketkeeper-batter Denesh Ramdin, will face Australia at Providence from 09:30 hrs. The regional side also includes former West Indies players Ramnaresh Sarwan, Jason Mohammed, Narsingh Deonarine and Devendra Bishoo.

Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs credited President Ali’s vision for sports development and infrastructure with helping Guyana emerge as a destination for international sporting events.

The minister highlighted the country’s growing sporting calendar, including the Global Super League, and said Guyana was continuing to make its mark on the international stage.

“Guyana is definitely a sporting destination in 2026,” Minister Jacobs said, while thanking the president for his leadership and commitment to the sector.

He welcomed the visiting teams and highlighted the opportunity the tournament provides for former players to represent their countries in competitive cricket, while experiencing some of Guyana’s leading sporting venues.

Minister Jacobs encouraged the participants to build connections beyond the field and wished all teams a successful tournament, with the best team emerging victorious.

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