The Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board has responded strongly ahead of the 2023 season to outline several new initiatives designed to raise the standard of the game currently reeling from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
It was refreshing to hear local cricket boss Azim Bassarath tell the media that Premier I clubs will now play at least three three-day matches on consecutive days.
The positive impact of this development will be felt immediately, as cricketers will have to adjust to playing longer in the middle in order to prepare for regional and international matches.
One will clearly remember that the Premier League clubs had agreed to play only white ball (limited overs) cricket when the Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, for many reasons.
Clubs had cited their unpreparedness for the longer format of the game due to inactivity over the previous 24 months and a shortened 2022 season.
However, the TTCB faced unwarranted criticism for not organizing red ball tournaments when the performance of the national teams did not meet their lofty expectations, which were not based on reality.
It will be surprising if there is any opposition to Mr. Bassarath which aligns with the Red Force coach’s objective to build the team’s physical fitness, discipline and mental toughness to ensure success moving forward.
It is worth noting that the most vocal critics of the TTCB cannot be relied upon to come up with credible suggestions to develop local cricket, as Mr. Bassarath.
John Vincent
Mount Hope
