(KAITEURNEWS)Riding high on confidence after ending 2014 on top of the points table in the
West Indies Cricket Board four-day franchise cricket, the Guyana Jaguars squad resumed preparation for the NAGICO Super 50 tournament with a fitness session yesterday at the National Stadium. The tournament will be played in Trinidad and Tobago from January 15-26 in two zones.
The players, under the guidance of head coach Esuan Crandon, assistant coach/manager Rayon Griffith, Michael Hyles Franco, Clive Grimmond and Territorial Development Officer and former West Indies fast bowler Colin Stuart undertook the beep test, runner three, 10-meter get up and sprint and 40-meter sprint which was checked at four stations.
However the sessions were interrupted by rain, but coach Crandon said there is an improvement in the players’ fitness. “Looking at the results it’s evident that there is an improvement, we want to see the players maintain a certain level of fitness,†Crandon added.
He stated that the team spirit is high and they are looking to continue their good showing from the four-day competition. “We are working to improve in all aspects of the game and we need to renew our attitude in 2015. A professional work ethic is also important,†he said.
Crandon is optimistic of Guyana chances in the tournament. “Looking at the squad, we have some very talented players and it will be very important how we use them. It is vital that we get off to a good start to build on, but it is not going to be an easy task, however we are capable enough,†the coach stated.
When quizzed about the players’ transition, Crandon pointed out that there are some very good athletes in the squad, but the shorter version entails more intensity so they have to undertake a lot of specific work including spot bowling, running between the wickets and maneuvering the strike.
The head coach explained that the all-round ability of the players will be their strength. “We will be without the services of some senior players like Narsingh Deonarine, Leon Johnson, Assad Fudadin and Shivnarine Chanderpaul, nevertheless this is an opportunity for other players to showcase their talent,†he posited out.
Crandon explained that a good start at the top of the order and keeping wickets in hand for the latter part of the innings will be key factors. “It is important that players know and execute their roles and be aware of match situations,†he lamented.
Guyana will take on Windward Islands, Combined Campuses and Colleges and Barbados in zone A. The final 14 is expected to be named shortly.
