Shiva Boys’ Hindu College is poised to compete in Trinidad and Tobago’s elite secondary school cricket circuit as they enter the 2026 PowerGen Secondary Schools Cricket League (SSCL) premier I division. Their promotion follows a triumphant 2025 season where they clinched the south championship division title.
Team manager Shane Lutchman confirmed the squad has undergone intensive training since September in preparation for the upcoming 50-over competition. “We have been putting in the work. Now it is approaching the season, so we are hoping for the best,” Lutchman stated, acknowledging the challenge ahead.
The premier I division features eight teams this year—down from ten—due to financial and logistical considerations. This condensed format also accommodates students’ academic commitments during CSEC and CAPE mock examinations. Shiva Boys will compete against established cricketing institutions including Queen’s Royal College, Presentation College Chaguanas, Presentation College San Fernando, Hillview College, Naparima College, St Mary’s College, and Vishnu Boys’ Hindu College.
Lutchman emphasized the importance of mental acuity alongside technical skills: “Players must consistently outthink their opponents. We’ve built a versatile squad where every member can contribute with the bat, supported by a diverse bowling attack featuring pacers and specialized spinners.”
Key players include medium-pacers Jaden Seurattan and Justin Hamid, complemented by left-arm spinners Sajiv and Adam Ghuran. Mickhel Sookdeo, another left-arm spinner, returns after an impressive 2025 season. The team retains most of its championship-winning roster, with Kiran Singh and Antonio Bachoo also expected to provide leadership.
The SSCL has restructured its format, renaming the championship division as premier II with north and south subdivisions. Winners from each will earn promotion to the 2027 premier I competition.
Shiva Boys’ last participated in the top division in 2022. Their return begins later this month as they face Trinidad’s most formidable school cricket programs.