New cricket president commits to youth

Dr Donavan Bennett, the newly appointed president of the Jamaica Cricket Association, is adamant that cricket will take centre stage during his tenure and promises a comprehensive focus on the sport after his decisive victory over Wilford 'Billy' Heaven in the general elections at the Jamaica Conference Centre on Thursday.

Bennett emerged victorious with 67 votes against Heaven's 30, after a prolonged delay attributed to finalising the voters' list.

Bennett, with more than four decades of unwavering dedication to cricket, expressed his immediate commitment to youth cricket development, viewing it as the cornerstone for rejuvenating the nation's cricketing prowess.

Recognising the need to rebuild from the grassroots level, Bennett outlined his plans to bolster youth cricket from under-13 and under-15 levels, while also addressing the void at the under-23 tier.

"If we are going to rebuild Jamaica's cricket we have to start at the bottom and work our way up, and I think the voters thought they needed someone who has the proper knowledge of youth cricket and how to administer it," said Bennett.

Meanwhile, outgoing contender Heaven gracefully congratulated Bennett on his victory, expressing his willingness to contribute to cricket's advancement under the new administration.

"I am for cricket and he knows my areas of competence and it is up to him to ask me and for me to agree, but we will wait until that time," Heaven said.

In the meantime, Fritz Harris clinched the first vice presidency, while Dr. Akshai Mansingh returned as the second vice-president. Laurence Garriques assumed the role of secretary, supported by Keith Wolford. Kerry Scott retained the treasurer post, with Michael Atterbury as his assistant.

The newly appointed directors for various divisions include Chester Anderson, Dixeth Palmer, and Horton Dolphin for Cornwall; Ian Spencer, Baron Watson, and Novelin Ricketts for Middlesex; and Nehemiah Perry, Keith Campbell, Anthony Davis, Godfrey Flemming and Paul Beckford for Surrey.