Ganga grateful for annual charity T20 support

FORMER national cricket captain Daren Ganga is grateful after the successful staging of the 3rd annual Daren Ganga Foundation charity T20 match on Saturday. The Ganga XI defeated a Brian Lara XI in a nail-biting finish at the Daren Ganga Recreation Ground in Barrackpore, with the match needing a super over to decide a winner.

"Right now my emotions are overflowing because of the love shown by everyone around... Without hesitation they (guest players) said they would be a part of this event," Ganga said at the event's closing ceremony and awards presentation.

The ex-West Indies batsman thanked the spectators for continuing to support the initiative which features past and present West Indies stars and helps raise funds for his foundation's programmes throughout the year.

"Even though my side (Ganga XI) now have the advantage (2-1) in the tie, the real winners are the members of the community and those who came out to support this annual event," he said.

Hundreds of cricket lovers and their children showed up at the Daren Ganga Recreation Ground in Barrackpore, eager to see the likes of West Indian legends Lara and Shivnarine Chanderpaul as well as top regional women's players such as Anisa Mohammed, Merissa Aguilleira and Stacy Ann King. The crowd got what they came for as Lara put on a majestic show at the crease. Lara elegantly smashed nine sixes and five fours in an unbeaten 88 as his side chased a victory target of 182. Earlier for the Ganga XI, Chanderpaul carved three fours and a six during his innings and host Ganga blazed 65 off 29 balls.

Ganga added, "To have these guys come out and give their time and effort still, after playing through a long and successful career, is something we all should be thankful for.

"It is really special to have the support of legends of the game, and looking at the way both Brian and Shiv bat today, we have to remember that these guys are over 40 and if you watch their skill level and technique it is embedded into their game."

Chanderpaul, who last year was awarded an honorary doctorate by The University of the West Indies, said, "This is my second time here at this great charity match. A lot of people turned up here again today and as the evening progressed more fans kept coming – which made the day even more exciting."

He continued, "With Lara scoring very easily as he chased a high target, the supporters were given a reason to cheer and enjoy the evening – which is what it is all about. It is always great to get reacquainted with the guys and reminisce on our glory days while socializing together, even after finishing our international cricket careers."

Lara, who played his last first class game 11 years ago, said he looks forward each year to returning to entertain the Barrackpore crowd.

He said, "The standout factor at this event for me is the support from the people – it has been tremendous since year one...They are the ones that actually make the match special and encourage me to come back every year."

Lara expressed gratitude to be part of Ganga's initiative of giving back to the community as well as helping develop the future generation of cricketers and vowed to continue supporting to his long-time friend once he is fit and able.

Lara XI

Brian Lara

Mukesh Mootilal

Sandeep Sankar

Preston Sam

Akash Pooransingh

Stacy Ann King

Roland Hosein

Devindra Maharaj

Justin Bridgemohan

Ashton Edwards

Sachin Soodeen

Nadim Shah

Rajindra Dhanraj

Rajin Bhagoutie

Sham Singh

Saif Mohammed

Kuarlal Rampersad

Samuel Badree

Ganga XI

Daren Ganga

Shivnarine Chanderpaul

Ryan Ruben

Raynan Ramsumair

Marcus Samaroo

Angelo Seujattan

Fazil Jahoor

Brandon Sam

Renard Ramkeesoon

Anisa Mohammed

Ravie Sookram

Rajesh Ramkeesoon

Dinanath Ramnarine

Terrence Bridgemohan

Merissa Aguilliera

Rico Seelochan

Hamish Maharaj

Kevin Manohar