Following the decision to completely remake the four pitches at Guyana’s only international cricket venue, the Guyana National Stadium located at Providence, East Bank Demerara, Stadium Manager, Anthony Xavier has indicated that the works are 50% completed.
Presently, the four pitches located on the square of the cricket field have been relayed and is in a setting phase.
Since the inaugural game, back in March 2007 when the stadium featured a World Cup match between Sri Lanka and South Africa, the pitch was the topic of much criticism on its slowness and lowness.
When this Guyana Times International Sportvisited the Stadium, the recently laid dirt was being heavily soaked.
This comes after the old pitches were dug up and a fresh bed of stone and other materials were placed as part of the preparation process.
The overall outcome is to have a pitch that mirrors the practice pitches which provide a better bounce and slower deterioration rate when compared to its previous state.
It is no secret that while Guyana has a slow and low pitch, the outfield is one of the fastest drying in the world and if the works done on the pitch are to exceed expectations Guyana has the potential to be one of the most sought after grounds in the Caribbean.
Additionally, the works are expected to produce a consistent bounce and carry much to liking of both batsmen and bowlers.
According to Xavier there is no rush to hurry the works, but rather time is treated wisely to produce a world class product.
Xavier indicated, however, that the project is heading into one of the more tender stages, as the laying of the grass is a delicate and technical procedure but is confident that the project will be completed in October.
Additionally, finishing touches are also being done to the already 95 percent complete paint job to the external stairways of the stands.
The project is expected to be completed in time to facilitate Guyana’s hosting of West Indies Cricket Board’s Professional Cricket League Regional Four Day matches which begins in November.
