分类： sports

Darren Sammy, the former West Indies cricket captain, has sparked controversy with his recent comments dismissing critics of the regional cricket team. In a heated statement, Sammy remarked, ‘People who don’t know an iota of cricket are criticising us.’ While Sammy is known for his passion, his sweeping dismissal of public opinion has been labeled as not only misplaced but also deeply insulting. Critics argue that Sammy has overlooked a fundamental truth: West Indies cricket was built not just by legendary players but also by generations of devoted fans across the Caribbean. From farmers in St Vincent to schoolboys in Laventille, every supporter has a vested interest in the team’s success. The right to critique a team’s performance, especially during repeated failures, is not contingent on personal cricketing expertise. Representing the West Indies is about embodying pride, culture, and resilience. When the team consistently underperforms, it’s natural for fans, who contribute through viewership, merchandise, and unwavering support, to demand better. Critics are not attempting to coach the players but are highlighting issues like lack of hunger, weak leadership, and a growing disconnect between the team and its supporters. The West Indies cricket team has not only been losing matches but also the hearts of its fans. Instead of reflecting on these concerns, Sammy’s response appears defensive, shielding mediocrity rather than addressing the root problems. The call is clear: rather than silencing the fans, the team should engage with them, listen to their concerns, and work towards rebuilding what’s broken.

A dramatic eligibility dispute has erupted hours before the 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division championship decider, casting a shadow over the highly anticipated title clash. Two mysterious letters, allegedly originating from St Benedict’s College acting principal Gregory Quan Kep, questioned the registration status of three Naparima College players through communications dated November 5 and November 26.

The correspondence, disseminated to media outlets during late-night and early-morning hours on November 26-27, raised concerns about player eligibility mere hours before Naparima’s crucial match against Signal Hill Secondary. In one document, queries were raised about a Naparima player who participated in the November 3 encounter against Benedict’s, while the other letter highlighted registration matters involving two additional Naparima squad members.

Multiple attempts to verify the letters’ authenticity proved unsuccessful, with Quan Kep remaining unresponsive to calls and WhatsApp messages. SSFL president Merere Gonzales and first vice-president were similarly unreachable. Adding to the mystery, Benedict’s manager Ravi Ramgoolam claimed no knowledge of the correspondence when contacted on November 27. SSFL assistant secretary of operations Gerald Elliot also stated he was unaware of any eligibility inquiries from the Benedict’s camp.

The controversy emerges amid a tense championship scenario where league leaders Naparima and second-placed Signal Hill (both at 34 points) face off at Lewis Street, San Fernando. The victor will claim the premier division title, while third-placed Benedict’s (33 points) maintains mathematical possibility of securing the trophy should they defeat Trinity College East and the top-two teams draw their decisive match.

This incident evokes memories of Benedict’s own eligibility controversy from the previous season, when the school was stripped of premier division honors after utilizing ineligible player Derrel “Zum Zum” Garcia in four matches. The infraction resulted in a devastating 12-point deduction, though Garcia still captured the 2024 Player of the Year award and guided his team to national intercol glory against eventual league champions Fatima College.

As of publication time, Naparima officials confirmed they had received no formal communication from the SSFL regarding player protests or eligibility investigations involving their squad members.

In a climactic conclusion to the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division season, Naparima College emerged victorious with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over Signal Hill Secondary on November 27 at Lewis Street in San Fernando. The victory secured Naparima’s fifth championship title in the competition’s history, adding to their previous wins in 2014, 2015, 2018, and 2019.

The match began with both teams level on 34 points, separated only by goal differential in a tense three-way title race that also included St Benedict’s College. Naparima demonstrated immediate dominance, controlling possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities from the opening whistle.

Riquelme Phillips broke the deadlock in the seventh minute with a clinical close-range finish after Signal Hill’s defense failed to clear a dangerous cross. The home side doubled their advantage in the 20th minute through defender Sebastian James, who converted a clever training-ground free-kick routine orchestrated by Jabari Rodriguez and Jayden Caprietta.

Signal Hill, coached by Downie Marcelle, struggled throughout the first half but emerged transformed after the interval. Their resurgence culminated in an 83rd-minute penalty converted by center back Raevion Marshall, setting up a nervy finale. The visitors came agonizingly close to equalizing when winger Immanual Wright struck a superb free kick against the crossbar in the second half.

Despite Signal Hill’s late pressure, Naparima’s defense held firm under the guidance of coach Angus Eve, securing the vital three points that delivered the championship. The victory lifted Naparima to 37 points, one point clear of St Benedict’s College, who secured second position with a 5-0 victory over Trinity College East but ultimately fell short of the title.

The final league standings saw Naparima claim top honors with 37 points from 15 matches, followed by St Benedict’s (36 points), Signal Hill (34 points), Presentation College San Fernando (34 points), and Fatima College (32 points) rounding out the top five positions.